DOJ investigation ongoing as Perry faces calls for censure or expulsion from Congress.
A judge has disclosed that Republican Congressman Scott Perry of Pennsylvania withheld approximately 2,200 records from the Department of Justice (DOJ) during its investigation into the January 6th Capitol riot.
The DOJ had requested the records as part of its investigation into the riot, but Perry reportedly refused to hand them over. However, Perry later provided some of the records to the DOJ, but the judge stated that he failed to provide all the records that were requested.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge Beryl Howell said Perry had taken an “astonishing view” of his immunity that would effectively put members of Congress above the law and free of political consequences for their actions. She instructed him to reveal 2,055 documents that he had intended to keep hidden. This included the complete set of 960 communications he had with executive branch members, which she deemed to be devoid of any constitutional protection.
Understand the Events on Jan. 6
Timeline: On Jan. 6, 2021, 64 days after Election Day 2020, a mob of supporters of President Donald J. Trump raided the Capitol. Here is a closer look at how the attack unfolded.
Lost Lives: A bipartisan Senate report found that at least 140 police officers were injured and 5 gave their lives in the deadly attack. Read the stories of the Capitol Police on January 6th.
Bipartisan Investigation: Over the last year, a Bipartisan Investigation, led by members from the Republican and Democratic Parties, held 9 House Committee hearings. Read and watch video and written summaries of all nine hearings.
Perry has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and has promoted the false claims of widespread voter fraud that led to the Capitol riot. He also voted against the certification of the 2020 presidential election results.
The DOJ's investigation into the Capitol riot is ongoing, and it is unclear whether Perry will face any charges as a result of his alleged withholding of records.
