Siaka Massaquoi, Vice Chair of L.A. County Republican Party, Taken into Custody
A board member of the Los Angeles County Republican Party has been arrested on charges related to his involvement in the U.S. Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Siaka Massaquoi, the first vice chair of the L.A. County Republican Party, was apprehended by FBI agents at Hollywood Burbank Airport. The arrest took place as Massaquoi returned from Nashville with his wife, where they attended the premiere of the controversial comedy film “Lady Ballers” by the Daily Wire, known for mocking transgender athletes.
Massaquoi was taken into custody on misdemeanor charges including trespassing, disorderly conduct, and parading or demonstrating in a Capitol building. After spending a night in jail, he was released on a $1,000 bond. Massaquoi appeared in court on Friday, according to FBI spokesperson Laura Eimiller.
The Republican Party of L.A. County did not dispute the reporting by Red State, a conservative news outlet for which Massaquoi is a columnist, but refrained from providing further comment at the moment.
Video Evidence Shared on Social Media
On a social media platform, Massaquoi posted a video clip of a livestream from inside the Capitol on January 6, stating, “Witness why I was raided 2 years ago and recently arrested and charged Nov 30th 2023 almost 3 years later.” This refers to a previous raid on Massaquoi’s North Hollywood home in June 2021, which occurred due to his associations on a social media app. In an Instagram video following the raid, Massaquoi maintained his innocence, claiming that he had not engaged in any violent acts during the events of January 6.
The video shared by Massaquoi on Saturday depicts him among a group of protesters, some concealing their identities, at the entrance of a Capitol door. Capitol Police officers in riot gear are seen attempting to disperse the crowd. Some individuals in the video express their desire to leave but are obstructed by the surrounding masses.
Massaquoi did not respond to requests for comment from The Times.
Gratitude and Support
When speaking with Red State, Massaquoi expressed his gratitude to Jesus for being with him and his family throughout this “unbelievable event.” He further stated, “Charlotte and I are so grateful for all the love and support we have received so far and know we will get through this with God’s grace. Thank you for your prayers and support.”
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. attorney’s office for the District of Columbia, which has yet to comment on the matter.
Massaquoi, also known as an actor with credits on shows like Fox’s “Lethal Weapon,” had previously filmed himself at a protest that disrupted the COVID-19 vaccination site at Dodger Stadium in January 2021.
Times staff writer Richard Winton contributed to this report.