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Alarming assassination plot uncovered
A shocking incident has emerged from Massachusetts, where a 24-year-old man, Ryan Michael English, has been charged with attempting to assassinate a cabinet nominee. The U.S. Department of Justice announced the charges this week, revealing the gravity of the situation that unfolded at the U.S.
Capitol. English was arrested in January after allegedly trying to bring a knife and two improvised Molotov cocktails into the Capitol, targeting then-Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent.
Details of the charges
On Thursday, English faced charges for attempted assassination and carrying a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds.
His initial court appearance raised eyebrows as prosecutors detailed his alarming intentions. According to court documents, English had not only plotted to kill Bessent but also had plans to target House Speaker Mike Johnson and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. His motivations were reportedly influenced by the case of Luigi Mangione, a suspect in the murder of a United HealthCare CEO.
Concerning motivations and actions
English’s actions on January 27 were particularly troubling. He approached a U.S. Capitol Police officer and stated, “I’d like to turn myself in,” revealing his intentions to kill Bessent. He claimed to possess two Molotov cocktails and two knives, expressing a clear motive for violence.
Furthermore, prosecutors indicated that he had traveled from Massachusetts to Washington with the intent to harm Hegseth, whom he referred to derogatorily, and to burn down the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank located near the White House.
During a search, Capitol Police discovered a folding knife and two improvised incendiary devices made from vodka bottles in English’s jacket, along with a green lighter in another pocket.
This alarming discovery has raised significant concerns regarding security measures at the Capitol and the potential for similar threats in the future.
