Mendoza’s testimony came at the start of a controversial Senate hearing Tuesday on the intelligence and security failures of the January 6 attack on the Capitol.
“I proceeded to Ratunda where I found heavy smoke-like remnants and I smelled what I thought was military grade CS gas – a familiar smell. It mingled with the firefighting spray deployed by the rioters. The rioters continued to deploy CS on the Special Division. “Enter Rotunda,” said Captain Mendoza of the department
Mendoza added, “Officers came in contact with a lot of gas, which is worse than outside the building, because it has nowhere to go.” “I’ve got a chemical burn on my face that hasn’t healed yet.”
Mendoza, who served in the U.S. Army and served in the U.S. Army for nearly 19 years. Having been a member of the Capitol Police, she said she has worked on controversial incidents throughout her career and during those incidents she was told many names. That now I am numb to it. ”
He also said that the U.S. The riots at the Capitol, in which about 1 officer was injured and one was killed, were the worst of his career as an officer.
“The number of people working with us would have been 10 times higher and I think this war would have been just as devastating,” Mendoza said.
“At some point, my right hand was tied between the rafters and the railing next to the wall,” he testified. “A (DC Police) sergeant freed my hand and if it hadn’t, I’m sure it would have broken.”
‘Officials plead for relief’
Mendoza told senators how she hit fellow officers with battered objects and officers physically closed the Capitol door after police cleared Rotunda as rioters continued to try to enter the building.
“A few hours later, officers cleared Rotunda, but the door had to be physically closed because it was broken into by rioters,” Mendoza said. “Officers requested me for relief, as they were not sure how long they would physically close the door and keep banging on the outside of the door with the crowd, trying to re-enter. Eventually the officers secured the door with furniture and other items. Were able. “
Mendoza said how she was at home with her 10-year-old before she was called at 1:30 p.m., she joined her fellow officers, who were already on the front lines.
“I am proud of the officers I worked with in January. They fought very hard. I know some said the war lasted three hours, but according to my fitbit I had exercise hours and nine minutes. Exercise was in the field, and many officers were in the fight before I did. “
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