MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Memphis man has been arrested in connection with last week’s riot at the U.S. Capitol.
CBS affiliate WREG reported Friday that Matthew Bledsoe was arrested by federal agents and charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
The U.S. Department of Justice said FBI agents received a tip that Bledsoe had been part of the group that entered the Capitol illegally. Investigators said they found videos and selfies of Bledsoe posted to his Instagram showing him inside the Capitol.
According to the arrest warrant, the tip also led agents to a post by Bledsoe’s wife on her Facebook page, in which she stated that “Matt was inside the Capitol, he was one of the first. They yelled and screamed, that’s about it.” “My husband is a Patriot solider. [sic]”
The DOJ said his identity was also checked against his driver’s license photo which shows him to be the same person shown in photos and videos on social media.
Bledsoe is the second Tennessee resident to be arrested in connection with the Capitol riot. Eric Gavelek Munchel, of Nashville, was arrested Sunday after being outed on social media as the rioter who invaded the U.S. Senate chambers with a weapon and zip-tie handcuffs.
The FBI is looking for individuals who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at fbi.gov/USCapitol.
Related story: FBI arrests Nashville zip-tie suspect from assault on U.S. Capitol
