Security Failures by Police During Riot Sparks Demand for Investigation
The massive failure by U.S. Capitol security during the riot has raised serious questions and concerns. Despite attendees openly discussing their intentions online for weeks prior to the event, police were understaffed, under armed, and under prepared to take on the angry mob. What’s more is videos have circulated online of officers letting rioters through barriers, holding doors open for them, taking selfies with them, and even holding their hands as they escorted them down stairs and off the grounds. Many have wondered also why more arrests were not made on sight. Furthermore, there appeared to be confusion over who was in charge, a delayed response from outside aids, and a severe lack of communication. The seemingly bizarre and unorganized actions taken by security has led many top lawmakers to call for a full investigation into the events of the day. While the Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police, Steven Sund, initially defended their response by saying with their limited resources they prioritized lives over property, he has since tendered his resignation effective by next week.