Jul 6, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Capitol Police chief reflects on six months since Jan. 6 attack

Erin Doherty

A Capitol Police officer watches the ceremony for the late Officer Brian Sicknick, as his remains lie in honor in the Rotunda on Wednesday, February 3, 2021. — A Capitol Police officer watches the ceremony for the late Officer Brian Sicknick on February 3, 2021. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Six months after the deadly Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, The U.S Capitol Police (USCP) is highlighting its work to support officers, enhance security around the Capitol Complex and pivot towards an intelligence-based protective agency.

The big picture: The half-year since the riot has seen the department implement broad changes, as it continues to work with federal law enforcement to track down those involved in the attack. So far, more than 500 people have been charged, acting Chief Yogananda Pittman wrote Tuesday.

What she's saying: "We honor all the brave men and women who, against all odds, faced down a violent crowd that day and protected our elected leaders and everyone who was in the Capitol Complex," Pittman wrote.

"We will never forget their bravery and will continue to work in their honor."

Between the lines: Pittman said USCP "has been working around the clock with our Congressional stakeholders" to implement changes since Jan. 6, including ...

Implementing wellness services for officers, including working with trauma counselors, offering spiritual support services, developing a peer support program and working with groups that specialize in addressing psychological trauma and stress, among other areas.
Enhancing security for members of Congress who reside outside of the D.C. area. The Department is also in the process of opening field offices in California and Florida to investigate threats to members of Congress.

The department has added joint training with the National Guard, riot training and shoot and don’t shoot scenarios.
USCP is working with Congressional oversight and the Capitol Police Board to get the authority to immediately request National Guard help if needed, without having to wait for board approval.

Go deeper: More than 70 officers have left U.S. Capitol Police since Jan. 6 riot

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Capitol Police chief reflects on six months since Jan. 6 attack

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