A Massachusetts resident's failed attempt to target high-ranking government officials has resulted in serious criminal charges that could lead to significant prison time.
According to Just The News, Ryan English has been charged with attempting to assassinate Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent after bringing Molotov cocktails to the Capitol grounds in January.
English voluntarily surrendered to Capitol Police and admitted to carrying two improvised incendiary devices made from Absolut Vodka bottles. The explosives were crafted using cloth soaked in hand sanitizer. He also had several knives in his possession when he turned himself in.
Initially, English had planned to target either House Speaker Mike Johnson or Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. His focus shifted to Treasury Secretary Bessent upon learning of the latter's recent confirmation during his visit to Washington, D.C.
When English surrendered on January 27, law enforcement discovered a note in his possession that revealed his state of mind. The message suggested he felt compelled to take action against what he perceived as threats to his community.
The suspect's candid admission to law enforcement included detailed information about his weapons and intended targets, demonstrating a level of premeditation that could impact the severity of his charges.
The Department of Justice has filed multiple charges against English, including the unlawful possession of an incendiary device and carrying dangerous weapons on Capitol grounds.
English made his initial appearance before the U.S. District Court on Thursday, where it was determined he would remain in custody pending further proceedings. The decision reflects the serious nature of the charges and potential flight risk.
The suspect's voluntary surrender and immediate cooperation with law enforcement could potentially influence the legal proceedings, though the gravity of the attempted assassination charges remains paramount.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of high-ranking government officials and the effectiveness of Capitol security measures. The suspect's ability to bring weapons and explosive devices onto government property has prompted discussions about potential security improvements.
Law enforcement's swift response and the suspect's capture before any harm occurred demonstrate the effectiveness of existing security protocols. However, the incident highlights ongoing challenges in protecting government officials.
Ryan English, who now faces serious federal charges, attempted to assassinate Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent by bringing Molotov cocktails and knives to the Capitol grounds in January. The plot was thwarted when English turned himself in to the Capitol Police on January 27, revealing his initial plans to target either House Speaker Mike Johnson or Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth before switching to Bessent upon learning of his confirmation.
The suspect remains in police custody after his first court appearance on Thursday, where he faces charges of carrying dangerous weapons on Capitol grounds and unlawful possession of incendiary devices. The case underscores ongoing concerns about the security of high-ranking government officials and the effectiveness of current protective measures at federal buildings.
