(DailyVantage.com) – U.S. Capitol Police arrested a Massachusetts man near the Capitol, uncovering a chilling plot against prominent Trump administration officials.
At a Glance
- Ryan Michael “Reily” English was found with weapons, including Molotov cocktails, near the Capitol.
- The plot targeted high-profile figures like Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
- English intended to commit a high-profile attack as a means to “depose” political offices.
- The incident underscores the persistent threats against government officials.
Arrest Details
U.S. Capitol Police apprehended Ryan Michael “Reily” English on charges related to a planned attack on senior Trump administration officials. English approached a Capitol Police Officer, declaring his intention to turn himself in. He possessed several weapons, including a folding knife and two Molotov cocktails, crafted from Absolut vodka bottles with cloth wicks. His vehicle contained more materials, such as a bottle of Smirnoff vodka and a sweatshirt with the sleeves removed.
English had traveled from Massachusetts, aiming to target figures like Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. A change of plans came after reading online posts, redirecting his focus to Scott Bessent, who was being confirmed as Treasury Secretary that day. This calculated move involved potential tactics including the use of Molotov cocktails and stabbings, fully aware of the risk of escalating to “suicide by cop.”
Motives and Preparations
Investigators revealed English’s disturbing motives, including intentions to “depose” political figures and send a clear, violent message. Evidence pointed to potential damage planned for the Heritage Foundation. He left an apologetic note, stating, “Judith dear god I am so sorry. You must understand I can feel myself dying slowly b/c of my heart,” reflecting on his motives against perceived threats. English, who left his phone at home to avoid digital tracking, utilized a traditional atlas for navigation to Washington, D.C.
“Judith dear god I am so sorry. You must understand I can feel myself dying slowly b/c of my heart. This is terrible but I cant do nothing while nazis kill my sisters. I love you. This is awful. Im so sorry. I love u. Please stay alive and heal. you can. you are strong enough. [Expletive] them for pushing us so far. you dont deserve this. Im so sorry for lying and plotting and lying. Please survive [7 hearts]” – Ryan “Reily” Michael English.
Facing charges of weapons possession on Capitol grounds, English remains held without bond as legal proceedings unfold. His motivations appeared to be driven by extremist ideologies, describing intentions like “f*ck them for pushing us so far,” in his communiqués. The chilling similarity to past incidents, including a July 2022 Capitol Molotov cocktail case, stresses the urgency of vigilant security measures for national leadership.
Security Implications
This incident exposes ongoing security vulnerabilities faced by government officials, highlighting the necessity for robust protocols to prevent assassination attempts. The politically polarized climate amplifies such threats, demanding constant vigilance by security agencies. English’s case illustrates a broader issue that cannot be ignored. The government must continually adapt its strategies to safeguard public figures against emerging threats from individuals willing to resort to violence for ideological beliefs.
“These actions were specifically to ‘depose’ these political offices and send a message” – affidavit.
The lack of an immediate legal defense has left questions about English’s mental state and motivations unaddressed. Ongoing investigations and trials will potentially shed more light on these aspects, offering further insights and lessons for enhancing national security apparatuses against such ideologically driven threats.
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