by: Areta Odiah, 22 News
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Congressman Richard Neal has called recent threats against members of Congress “intimidating” following two high-profile attacks this past week.
The threats include an incident in which Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was sprayed with an unknown substance during a public event, and Florida Congressman Maxwell Frost was punched in the face at the Sundance Film Festival.
These incidents are part of a larger trend, with the U.S. Capitol Police reporting more than 5,000 threats against Congress members and staff in the past year.
The incident involving Omar occurred on January 24, when a man used a syringe to squirt a liquid on her after she criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and called for the dismissal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Frost posted on social media on January 27, saying he was assaulted by a man who told him that President Trump was going to deport him. Frost said that the assailant was also heard yelling racist remarks.
“I hope that people elected are altering their schedules, being mindful and careful for sure, and when the challenge comes up, reporting to Capitol Police who have extensive operational abilities,” said Congressman Neal.
Capitol Police stated that they are working to strengthen partnerships with law enforcement agencies across the country to enhance security for members of Congress as the number of reported incidents continues to rise.
