U.S. Capitol Police investigated 8,008 threats against members of Congress last year, according to new case numbers released Thursday.
Last year’s tally marked an increase from a figure released for 2022, but it’s below the 9,625 cases the agency investigated in 2021 when the Jan. 6 riot occurred. Figures in recent years have remained largely elevated when contrasted with the 5,206 cases Capitol Police investigated just five years ago in 2018.
In Thursday’s release, Capitol Police said that “a wide range of threats and concerning statements” had been directed at lawmakers from both political parties through various modes of communication including phone, social media, email, and others.
With the upcoming campaign season, the department is expecting 2024 to be “a very busy year for our special agents,” USCP Assistant Chief of Protective and Intelligence Operations Ashan M. Benedict said in a statement.
“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,” Benedict said.
In August last year, Capitol Police announced fresh efforts to shore up its recruitment of agents and investigators to protect members of Congress amid a wave of threats to lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
A Nevada man was arrested and charged in October with leaving a series of antisemitic, profanity-laced voicemails at the office of Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., a prominent Jewish voice in support of Israel after Hamas’ attacks there.
That same month, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, said she received death threats and threatening phone calls after she cast her vote in a round of balloting for House speaker.
Earlier last year, a man was accused of attacking Democratic Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota in a Washington, D.C., elevator. He was sentenced in November to 27 months in prison.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
