Kevin Loftus was released without bond, must abide by court restrictions until his next court appearance.
An Eau Claire man who posted on Facebook that he was among those wanted for illegally entering the US Capitol during last week’s riot was arrested in Eau Claire on Tuesday and made his initial appearance in federal court.
Kevin Daniel Loftus, 52, was arrested for illegally entering either house of Congress, or adjacent areas, and disorderly conduct on the grounds of the Capitol.
The complaint shows pictures posted on Facebook and other social media sources of the man identified as Loftus holding an American flag and smiling inside the Capitol in the halls of Congress. The complaint shows social media comments by Loftus saying “One of 700 inside” and “That’s right folks some of us are in it to win it.”
Loftus also commented on a story about police releasing photos of suspects in the Capitol riots.
“i am wanted by the FBI for illegal entry,” he posted.
The complaint said the FBI interviewed Loftus in Eau Claire on Saturday and he admitted to walking into the Capitol on Jan. 6 where he took several photos.
US Magistrate Judge Stephen Crocker told Loftus he would not have to post a bond, but his release until further court proceedings is contingent upon complying with a release order.
Lofuts is among dozens of people across the country who are being charged in the wake of the riots that forced Congress to adjourn and go into hiding. A Capitol police officer died from injuries suffered in the riot, and police shot a woman during the violence. Three others died in what authorities said were medical emergencies.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Pat Kreitlow The Founding Editor of UpNorthNews, Pat was a familiar presence on radio and TV stations in western Wisconsin before serving in the state Legislature. After a brief stint living in the Caribbean, Pat and wife returned to Chippewa Falls to be closer to their growing group of grandchildren.
