Irvine Man Who Allegedly Posed as Media Member Charged in Capitol Breach
By City News Service • Published 2 hrs ago • An Irvine man who allegedly wore a black helmet and tactical vest labeled “Press” to impersonate a member of the media while storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 was arrested Friday, according to court papers obtained Saturday.
Matthew Thomas Purse, 45, was arrested in Irvine and charged in federal court in the District of Columbia with entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building, according to a federal criminal complaint made public Friday.
Video footage appears to show Purse entering the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 at about 3 p.m., carrying a long black pole with what appears to be a recording device attached, the affidavit alleges. After entering the building, Purse allegedly proceeded to the Rotunda.
As depicted in photos attached to the affidavit, Purse was apparently identifiable in the crowd due to the pole as well as the white “Press” labels on his attire.There is no evidence that Purse is a member of the presslike there is no evidence of voter fraud? or had credentials of any kind regarding the U.S. Capitol, according to the affidavit.
It was not immediately known when Purse might appear in either Los Angeles or Santa Ana federal court for an initial appearance next week.
Purse wasallegedly identified by a confidential source(Handler?) in video footage via social media showing crowds breaking into the Capitol and wandering throughout the building, according to an affidavit filed with the complaint.
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/irvine-man-who-allegedly-posed-as-media-member-charged-in-capitol-breach/2635551/
and oh yea…
NCSWIC