Iced Earth guitarist Jon Schaffer has turned himself into authorities in his home state of Indiana. The veteran musician has been pursued by law enforcement since his alleged involvement in the riots that took place at the US Capitol Building on January 6th.
Schaffer is currently facing some six charges for his participation in the violence. Among the most egregious of the offenses, Schaffer allegedly used "bear spray," a highly potent pepper spray designed to ward off wildlife in his effort to breach the building. The spray was used on Capitol Building police officers as the mob continued to charge forward.
According to the FBI's Indianapolis field office, the six charges Schaffer is currently staring down include the following...
Knowingly Entering or Remaining in any Restricted Building or Grounds Without Lawful Authority
Disrupting the Orderly Conduct of Government Business
Knowingly Engages in an Act of Physical Violence Against any Person or Property in any Restricted Building or Grounds
Violent Entry and Disorderly Conduct in a Capitol Building
Engage in an Act of Physical Violence in a Capitol Building
Parade, Demonstrate, or Picket in a Capitol Building
As reported by Blabbermouth, Washington, D.C., police officer Christina Laury told CNN about the use of bear spray from someone in the mod. Surveillance photos show Schaffer carrying what looks to be the can in question.
"It seals your eyes shut," Officer Laury said. "You've got to spray and douse yourself with water. And in those moments, it's scary because you can't see anything and have people that are fighting to get through."
While Schaffer has not made any statement addressing his involvement, the remaining members of his band Iced Earth have formally addresses fans with a statement that opposes what took place on January 6th.
“First and foremost we absolutely do not condone nor do we support riots or the acts of violence that the rioters were involved in on January 6th at the U.S. Capitol building,” the band shared.
