Evergreen Reporter

A Connecticut resident has been apprehended in connection with the events of January 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol. James Roe Cleary, aged 56 and hailing from Waterford, Connecticut, faces charges of civil disorder during the incident that disrupted a joint session of Congress tasked with counting electoral votes from the 2020 presidential election.

Cleary is accused of felony obstruction of law enforcement amid a civil disorder. He also faces misdemeanor charges including simple assault, unlawful entry and conduct in restricted areas, physical violence in restricted zones, and disorderly conduct within the Capitol.

The FBI detained Cleary in Waterford; he is set to appear initially in court within the District of Connecticut.

Court documents reveal Cleary's identification through open-source materials and video near the Lower West Terrace Tunnel on January 6. This location witnessed significant clashes between rioters and police officers. It is alleged that Cleary engaged physically with officers at this site.

Video evidence purportedly shows Cleary assisting another rioter out of the Tunnel after swiping at an officer's head. Additionally, he allegedly grabbed a baton found on the ground and handed it to another individual amidst chaos before returning to confront police again.

Further footage suggests Cleary aided another trapped rioter while remaining near a window where others broke glass panes to pass furniture outside. He was later seen shoving someone carrying camera equipment before leaving the area.

The case prosecution involves both the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, supported by their counterparts in Connecticut.

Investigations are conducted by FBI offices in New Haven and Washington with assistance from Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department.

Since January 6, over 1,504 individuals across nearly all states have faced charges related to Capitol breaches; more than 560 involve assaults or impediments against law enforcement—a felony offense. Investigations continue as authorities seek further information via tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324).

All allegations remain subject to proof beyond reasonable doubt in court proceedings where defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.