Chicago Official and Photographer Charged for Role in Capitol Riot

Patrick Gorski, 27, faces felony and misdemeanor charges for alleged actions during the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Patrick Gorski, a freelance photographer and government official from Illinois, was arrested in Chicago on November 21, 2024, and released on bond following his initial court appearance.
Gorski is charged with a felony count of obstructing law enforcement during civil disorder and four misdemeanors, including entering restricted Capitol grounds and disorderly conduct.
Court documents allege Gorski climbed scaffolding, breached police lines, and entered the Capitol, where he yelled at officers, pushed against a riot shield, and took photos and videos.
The FBI claims Gorski later denied attending the riot, but investigators obtained messages and tips identifying him and linking him to election conspiracy rhetoric.
More than 1,500 individuals have been charged in connection to the Capitol attack, with Gorski joining over 50 Illinois residents facing prosecution for their involvement.