TRENDING
Capitol Police Investigated 8,008 Threats Against Lawmakers In 2023
U.S. Capitol Police
The U.S. Capitol Police investigated 8,008 threats against lawmakers in 2023, according to a report released Thursday.
The threats included concerning statements and direct threats sent through the mail, email, telephone, and social media/the internet, the agency said.
“I am proud of our agents who are working around the clock and across the nation to keep up with a significant caseload to protect the Members of Congress and the Capitol Complex,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger. “We continue to improve and enhance our investigative and protective responsibilities by focusing on security both here on Capitol Hill and in Members home districts.”
The 8,008 threats investigated last year mark an increase from 7.501 in 2022, but a decrease from 9,625 in 2021, the year the Capitol was breached on Jan. 6, and 8,613 in 2020, an election year and the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. There were 6,955 threats investigated in 2019, and 5,206 in 2018.
2024 is an election year, when threats typically surge. the agency said.
A false sense of anonymity on social media has led to an increase in threat investigations in recent years, according to the agency, which said that decreasing violent political rhetoric is one of the best ways to reduce the number of threats.
“With the political conventions, Member campaigns, and many issues being debated on Capitol Hill, this is going to be a very busy year for our special agents,” said USCP Assistant Chief of Protective and Intelligence Operations Ashan M. Benedict. “Our team is dedicated to putting all of our resources into protecting the Congress while we continue to grow in order to keep up with our expanding mission.”
The agency said it has expanded pathways for hiring USCP special agents in the Investigations Division and Dignitary Protection Division to keep pace with recruiting needs. It also made dozens of changes to improve intelligence, planning, communication, training, staffing and equipment during the last three years, the agency said.
TMX contributed to this article.
