Chicago Man Faces Felony Charge for Alleged Role in Jan. 6 Capitol Riot
Patrick Gorski, 27, Arrested and Charged with Felony and Misdemeanor Offenses
A 27-year-old Chicago man, Patrick Gorski, faces felony and misdemeanor charges for allegedly taking part in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Gorski was arrested on Thursday and charged with a felony count of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder and four misdemeanor offenses: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building. He was released pending trial, according to court documents.
Gorski’s Actions During the Riot
According to prosecutors, Gorski attended the “Stop the Steal” rally before marching towards the Capitol building with others. Wearing a “Make America Great Again” hoodie and hat, he climbed a wall onto the northwest stairs, taking selfies and helping other rioters remove tarps from the inaugural scaffolding and passing a bike rack to others in the mob.
Gorski’s Investigation
Gorski’s investigation began after at least four tips identified him as someone who had been part of the riot. He was questioned by investigators, who found that he had been in Washington, D.C. sightseeing, according to court documents. However, investigators also obtained messages from Gorski’s phone, which revealed that he often shared election conspiracies and later discussed being at the riot with friends.
Messages Obtained by Investigators
In messages obtained by investigators, Gorski wrote, “Last time this happened it was done by the British in 1812 regardless this was one of the most historical things ever. Zero media covering it when it was actually happening [sic] I was the closest thing to a photographer there.”
Other Illinois Residents Charged in the Riot
Gorski joins more than 50 other Illinois residents charged in relation to the insurrection, according to prosecutors with the Northern District Court of Illinois. Another Illinois man, Theodore Middendorf of McLeansboro, has now sought to delay a guilty plea resulting from the riot. His lawyer argued that Trump’s election means “there will be an upcoming, likely significant, change in administration and uncertainty” around how such cases will play out.
Trump’s Pardon Promise
Trump has promised to pardon those who have been prosecuted for their role in the attack, which more than 50 Illinois residents were charged for.
Conclusion
Patrick Gorski, a 27-year-old Chicago man, faces felony and misdemeanor charges for allegedly taking part in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. As the investigation continues, Gorski’s case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of participating in violent and destructive behavior.
FAQs
* What are the charges against Patrick Gorski?
Gorski is charged with a felony count of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder and four misdemeanor offenses: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.
* What is the current status of Gorski’s case?
Gorski was released pending trial, according to court documents.
* How many Illinois residents have been charged in relation to the insurrection?
More than 50 Illinois residents have been charged in relation to the insurrection, according to prosecutors with the Northern District Court of Illinois.
