Now, folks, if wielding a sword while storming the Capitol isn’t the epitome of bizarre behavior, I don’t know what is. Kennedy Lindsey, a Californian, allegedly decided to play medieval warrior by allegedly carrying an arsenal of weapons into the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
These weren’t just any weapons; they allegedly included a short sword, a steel tactical whip, a collapsible baton, pepper spray, a butterfly knife, and a flashlight taser. That’s enough hardware to make Rambo blush. Lindsey reportedly made the trek to Washington, D.C., from California after Donald Trump’s call for a protest and participated in the rally.
The Incidents Unfolded
Lindsey didn’t stop at just attending the rally. She was reportedly spotted entering the Capitol through a broken window, with a red ‘Make America Great Again’ hat and a tactical vest on. Lindsey also allegedly filmed herself cruising to the Capitol on a golf cart, urging viewers to join her escapade.
FBI: California woman brought sword, whip and other weapons into Capitol during Jan. 6 riot https://t.co/EsznVer53F
— Courthouse News (@CourthouseNews) August 7, 2024
Inside the Capitol, she was apparently seen with a sword strapped to her leg by a U.S. Secret Service officer. Initially, Lindsey denied carrying any weapons but later admitted that they were in her backpack when she entered.
According to court documents, she was detained by a Secret Service agent for suspicious actions near the Presidential Transition Office. Her weapons were confiscated in the process.
Legal Consequences and Arrest
Following January 6, Lindsey was arrested in Los Angeles on July 28, 2024. She faces charges of disorderly conduct and possession of a dangerous weapon but was released after her arrest. Given the serious accusations, Lindsey could be looking at substantial legal consequences if found guilty.
Over 1,488 individuals have been charged for their alleged roles in the Capitol riot, with approximately 550 accused of assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into the events of January 6 is ongoing.
Continued Investigation and Media Attention
The Associated Press and other sources have sought comments from Lindsey and her attorney, but have yet to receive a response. However, Lindsey reportedly took to TikTok, complaining about her weapons being confiscated by the Secret Service officer.
This case is yet another reminder of the chaotic day of January 6 and its wider implications. Lindsey was released from custody after her arrest late last month, and it’s unclear when proceedings will move forward.
Sources
- FBI: California woman brought sword, whip and other weapons into Capitol during Jan. 6 riot
- California woman stormed Capitol on Jan. 6 with a sword, knife and pepper spray, FBI says
- Woman Brought Sword, Taser and Other Weapons Into Capitol on Jan. 6: FBI