[Epoch Times] Now a new name has surfaced in the Babbitt imbroglio‐Lt. Michael L. Byrd‐and while USCP Communications Director Eva Malecki won't confirm he is the shooter, in this case she isn't denying it.In a little-noticed exchange, Byrd was cited by the acting House sergeant at arms during a brief discussion of the officer who shot Babbitt at a Feb. 25 House hearing.
No leaks to the NYT on that little tidbit?
Both C-SPAN and CNN removed his name from transcripts, but CQ Transcripts‐which, according to its website, provides "the complete word from Capitol Hill; exactly as it was spoken"‐recorded the Capitol official, Timothy Blodgett, referring to the cop as "Officer Byrd." His name is clearly audible in the videotape of the hearing (see video embed further below).
Byrd appears to match the description of the shooter, who video footage shows is an African American dressed that day in a business suit. Jewelry, including a beaded bracelet and lapel pin, also match up with photos of Byrd.
In addition, Byrd's resume lines up with what is known about the experience and position of the officer involved in the shooting‐a veteran USCP officer who holds the rank of lieutenant and is the commander of the House Chamber Section of the Capitol Police.
Following the shooting, Byrd's Internet footprint was scrubbed, including his social media and personal photos.
Coincidence? I think not.
Because Congress has exempted the USCP from Freedom of Information Act requests, the family is suing the D.C. Police "for documents that identify the officer who shot Babbitt … as well as notes and summaries of what the officer said regarding the shooting and the reasons he discharged his weapon." (The D.C. Police has led the investigation into Babbitt's shooting.) A hearing before a judge is scheduled for Sept. 3. Washington-based watchdog Judicial Watch also is suing for the records.
Yet another requirement the Congress has exempted itself from.