USCP Rapid Response Team Stops, Arrests Suspect Who Threatened a Member of Congress

A Pennsylvania man is arrested for Threats to do Bodily Harm for threatening to kill a Member of Congress.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) Rapid Response Team spotted a man from a BOLO (be on the lookout) bulletin, which was published by the USCP’s Threat Assessment Section on October 28. The man was stopped before he could attempt to go through security screening at the Delaware Avenue Door of the Russell Senate Office Building.

“We will not tolerate any threats to the Members of Congress, their families, or staff,” said United States Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan. “Our officers, agents, and professional staff work relentlessly to bring offenders to justice. We have a zero-tolerance stance when it comes to threats.” 

The suspect was identified as 43-year-old Richard Griffin of Pennsylvania. Griffin has a history of emailing a Congressional office, as well as various government officials and law enforcement agencies.

“Today’s arrest is further evidence of the fact that our officers remain vigilant during this heightened threat environment,” said Assistant Chief for Uniformed Operations Sean Gallagher. “We are all proud of the work they do around the clock to keep the Congressional community safe.”