Authorities in central New Jersey are currently conducting an intense search for Gregory Yetman, a suspect wanted in connection with the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. As FBI agents approached his home, Yetman managed to flee, prompting law enforcement agencies to initiate a manhunt to locate him. The specific charges he faces in relation to the attack have not yet been disclosed.
The FBI’s Newark office released a statement on Thursday morning, confirming their ongoing efforts to apprehend Yetman. They have established a command operation at a local community center and are receiving assistance from state, county, and local police. The area is being actively monitored until Yetman is located and arrested.
According to Helmetta’s mayor, Christopher Slavicek, the search for Yetman began on Wednesday morning when FBI agents arrived at his residence for the arrest. Yetman quickly fled and disappeared into the nearby woods, creating a sense of heightened anxiety in the surrounding community. The search efforts have involved search helicopters flying at low altitudes and various law enforcement agencies patrolling the roads.
Earlier this year, Yetman, identified as a former military police sergeant in the New Jersey National Guard, was interviewed by the FBI regarding his participation in the riot. He is suspected of using pepper spray against both protesters and police officers during the incident. However, Yetman maintains his innocence, stating that he did nothing wrong at the Capitol and denies using pepper spray against anyone.
The Capitol attack on January 6th resulted in over 1,200 individuals being charged with federal crimes related to the riot. Of those charged, more than 800 have either pleaded guilty or been convicted after trial. Over 700 individuals have received sentences, with approximately two-thirds of them being handed prison terms ranging from three days to 22 years.
The search for Gregory Yetman serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for their actions during the Capitol attack. Law enforcement agencies are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served for the events that unfolded on that fateful day.
