Capitol chaos: New insights emerge on January 6th as journalist speaks out.

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Amid the turmoil near the U.S. Capitol, a journalist captures the unfolding events with determination. This image symbolizes the bravery and urgency of reporting during historic moments. In the background, the tension of the day is etched into every face, with the Capitol standing as a stark reminder of the day’s significance.

Washington, D.C. – The long-awaited Inspector General’s report on the January 6th Capitol riots has been released, confirming many suspicions while leaving critical questions unanswered. The report highlights the presence of dozens of FBI informants in the crowd, the withholding of intelligence from Capitol Police, and allegations of misinformation spread by the FBI and members of Congress about the day’s events.

Independent journalist Steve Baker, currently affiliated with an independent media outlet, shared his firsthand account in an exclusive interview with Redacted. Baker was at the Capitol on January 6th to document events as they unfolded. His reporting, however, led to unexpected consequences, including a federal charge, highlighting broader concerns about the weaponization of the Department of Justice (DOJ).

A Journalist’s ordeal.

“I went to cover the event at the Ellipse with my camera and microphone,” Baker explained. “What I witnessed - and recorded - was not the narrative being pushed by officials.” Baker arrived at the Capitol after violence had already erupted. His footage captured the chaos and the actions of various groups, but not before facing accusations from authorities.
“Between 80 and 100 journalists entered the Capitol that day,” Baker said. “Yet, only four or five of us were charged - coincidentally, those aligned with the conservative spectrum.”
Baker detailed his subsequent ordeal: a grand jury subpoena for his videos, threats of prosecution, and finally, his voluntary surrender to the FBI in Dallas. “For a non-violent misdemeanor, I was shackled in leg irons. Even my attorneys, both former federal prosecutors, were shocked,” he said.

FBI Informants in the crowd.

The report sheds light on confidential human sources (CHS) embedded in groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. These informants, while expected to avoid illegal activity, were allegedly present inside restricted areas. Despite their actions, none faced charges - a stark contrast to Baker’s treatment. “The IG report reveals gaps and misinformation on all sides,” Baker noted. “What’s clear is that the FBI had significant intelligence but failed to act effectively. They knew violence was possible, yet did little to prevent it.”
Baker’s observations align with the report’s acknowledgment that informants had warned of potential violence beforehand. However, this intelligence was not disseminated to frontline Capitol Police officers.

A broader implication.

Beyond the events of January 6th, Baker’s case underscores concerns about the DOJ and FBI. “We’ve seen lies, distortions, and a lack of due process,” he said. “My judge chastised me - not for my actions but for my journalism, calling out the weaponization of federal agencies.”

A call for accountability.

As the nation grapples with the fallout of January 6th, questions linger: Why was intelligence ignored? Were federal agents or informants complicit in escalating tensions? And what role did political narratives play in shaping public perception? Baker supports former President Trump’s suggestion of pardoning January 6th defendants. “ I initially believed only non-violent offenders deserved pardons. Now, I think justice demands a broader approach. The system failed too many people,” he said.

As investigations continue, Baker’s experience serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges journalists face in holding power accountable - and the heavy price they sometimes pay.■

Redacted News: https://redacted.inc/

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