In a display of vigilance and swift action, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) successfully apprehended two armed criminals who crashed a stolen car into a barricade at the Capitol Complex. Notably, the USCP officers also confiscated their handguns, one of which possessed a dangerous modification to convert it into a machine gun.

USCP Assistant Chief Sean Gallagher commended the officers involved and emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of individuals within the Capitol Complex. "This incident serves as yet another testament to the diligence and perseverance of our officers in taking dangerous criminals off the streets," stated Chief Gallagher.

The incident occurred on Sunday around 2:15 a.m. during a routine patrol when a USCP officer observed a white Infiniti Q50 at a green traffic light near Union Station on Massachusetts Avenue, NE. Suspecting possible impairment, the officer initiated a traffic stop. However, the driver promptly accelerated, crashing into a vehicle barricade near First Street and D Street, NE, within close proximity to the USCP headquarters.

Both the driver and the passenger hastily fled the scene on foot, prompting the USCP officers to pursue them. The officers successfully captured the suspects in separate locations. One suspect was apprehended in the 100 block of C Street, NE, while the other was caught in the 500 block of Second Street, NE.

During the investigation, law enforcement discovered a Glock handgun equipped with a 22-round extended magazine on the passenger seat, alongside an additional magazine. Additionally, another Glock firearm, modified with a "Giggle Switch" capable of converting it into a machine gun, was found concealed in a flowerbed in the 100 block of C Street, NE.

Authorities have identified the apprehended individuals as 20-year-old residents of Washington, D.C., Ricardo L. Glass and Onosetale Okojie. The suspects face multiple charges, including Carrying a Pistol Without a License (x2), Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Unlawful Entry of a Motor Vehicle, Receiving Stolen Property $1000 or More, Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device, Fleeing from a Law Enforcement Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Felon in Possession, Reckless Driving, No Permit, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Possession of Unregistered Ammunition, Obliterate, Remove, Change or Alter the Serial Number of a Firearm, and Unlawful Possession of a Machine Gun.

A noteworthy detail is that this year, the USCP has already seized over 30 firearms. It is important to note that all weapons, regardless of legal registration in other states or the District of Columbia, are strictly prohibited on Capitol Grounds.

The swift response of the USCP officers in apprehending the armed criminals and securing dangerous firearms underscores their commitment to upholding the safety and security of the Capitol Complex. The successful operation serves as a reminder of the vital role played by law enforcement in preserving the well-being of individuals within the nation's capital.