Peter Moloney, Long Island funeral home owner, pleaded guilty to assaulting police officers and striking a photojournalist and another man.
Peter G. Moloney, the former owner of multiple Long Island funeral homes, has pleaded guilty to federal assault charges related to his actions during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the National Capitol. Moloney was part of the initial group of rioters who breached the Capitol grounds following the “Stop the Steal” rally in support of then-President Donald J. Trump.
During the attack, Moloney used a can of Black Flag Wasp, Hornet & Yellow Jacket Killer to spray police officers, causing harm to their hands, arms, and heads. He also struck a photographer, resulting in damage to the individual’s camera. Moloney, aged 60, admitted to one felony charge of assaulting, resisting, and impeding police officers, as well as one misdemeanor charge of assault by striking.
As part of his plea agreement, Moloney will be required to pay restitution for the damage caused to the Capitol grounds and the photographer’s camera. His lawyers have chosen not to provide any comments on his plea. Moloney had traveled to the Capitol from his residence in Bayport, N.Y., carrying protective gear such as a bicycle helmet, safety goggles, hard-knuckle gloves, and a face mask. According to the federal complaint, Moloney was seen putting on his helmet and goggles upon arrival at the Capitol, indicating his readiness for violence.
The complaint includes numerous images of Moloney at the Capitol, some of which show him confronting police officers while holding his cellphone. In two specific photos captured by officers’ body-worn cameras, Moloney can be seen actively spraying the wasp spray at the officers.
The guilty plea from Moloney highlights his involvement in the violent events of Jan. 6 and underscores the serious consequences of participating in such acts of aggression. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting law enforcement authorities. As the legal process unfolds, Moloney will face the penalties associated with his actions, including financial restitution for the damage caused during the attack.
Source: The NY Times
