Former Proud Boys Leader Enrique Tarrio Arrested on Assault Charges at the U.S. Capitol

Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, recently released from a 22-year prison sentence through presidential clemency, was taken into custody by U.S. Capitol Police outside the Capitol building. He was with several members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers during a press conference when an incident unfolded between him and a female counter protester. According to statements from the police, the altercation began when a woman was seen holding a cell phone near another man’s face before that man struck her phone and arm.

Tarrio told nearby onlookers that he reacted when the woman placed her phone near his face, leading him to grab and smash it. Later, while speaking outside the Conservative Political Action Conference, he claimed that the altercation involved his being “pricked” by the woman, implying some form of provocation, and maintained that video evidence supported his version of events. He expressed the belief that the charges against him might be dropped.

During the same press conference, leaders including Tarrio, Stewart Rhodes, and members from the Oath Keepers outlined plans to pursue legal action against the Department of Justice, alleging misconduct and promising a lawsuit that could demand significant damages. The group, previously convicted of seditious conspiracy in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack, continues to assert its affiliation and commitment as they outline their future plans.