WASHINGTON — Hundreds of protesters rallied near the U.S. Capitol and inside a House of Representatives office building Wednesday afternoon. They demanded a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas. Members of the group said it was made up of Jews and allies.
The group was slowly disbanded by police officers and many of its members were detained and arrested.
QUESTION
Could protesters face jail time after entering a House office building?
SOURCES
ANSWER
Yes, hundreds of people could face varying jail sentences if they are convicted for their roles in the protest.
WHAT WE FOUND
A large group of protesters spent Wednesday afternoon demanding an end to the fighting in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, a war in which nearly 3,500 people have already been killed.
Many stood between the Capitol and the Cannon House Office Building, while dozens made their way inside. Some sat on the ground inside the building, while others draped signs over the second-floor balcony.
The protest lasted a couple hours. Capitol Police officers shut down roads on the House side of the Capitol while the group was there.
According to the U.S. Capitol Police, 305 people were arrested and charged with crowding, obstructing, or incommoding.
According to DC code, that charge brings a possible penalty of 90 days in jail and/or a fine of $500.
Additionally, U.S. Capitol Police said three of the protesters were charged with assault on a police officer. That charge carries a maximum sentence of 180 days in jail and/or a fine of $1,000.