Kevin Michael Alstrup, of D.C., was charged this week with four misdemeanor counts for allegedly entering the U.S. Capitol as part of a pro-Trump mob on Jan. 6, 2021.
A federal judge ruled on Tuesday that a diplomatic security officer employed by the State Department, Kevin Michael Alstrup, can retain his firearm while on duty as he awaits trial for his involvement in the Capitol riot of January 6, 2021. Alstrup, a resident of D.C., faces four misdemeanor charges for allegedly participating in the riot.
Evidence presented in charging documents includes Alstrup’s presence inside the Capitol, captured in still images from a live stream by another rioter, Anthime “Baked Alaska” Gionet, who was previously sentenced for his role. Google location data further places Alstrup’s phone within the Capitol premises during the riot. Alstrup’s employment as a diplomatic security officer underscores his familiarity with safeguarding high-profile individuals and sensitive locations.
Surveillance footage depicts Alstrup entering the Capitol through the Senate Wing door and proceeding to the Crypt, occasionally recording others’ activities. During his court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Harvey, Alstrup was released on personal recognizance, with conditions including staying away from the Capitol and limiting firearm possession to duty hours. The impact of these charges on his employment remains uncertain.
The ruling coincided with the 37-month anniversary of the Capitol riot, which has resulted in over 1,300 individuals being charged with offenses ranging from unauthorized entry to seditious conspiracy. Approximately 900 defendants have either pleaded guilty or been convicted in trials since the incident.