Defense Department Employee’s Past Involvement in Capitol Riot

By June 4, 2026, a man involved in the Jan. 6 riot, who later described it as a “disgrace,” works in a key role within the Defense Department. Elias Irizarry now serves as a special assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense, overseeing operations in military policy, and he holds a top-secret security clearance. An official confirmed these details to CBS News.

Since early last year, Irizarry has been an employee of the Defense Department. Acting Pentagon press secretary Joel Valdez praised Irizarry, calling him a “qualified, patriotic young professional,” on social media. Meanwhile, CBS News has reached out to Irizarry’s attorney for further comment. The Washington Post initially reported on Irizarry’s Pentagon role.

Back in January 2021, Irizarry, who was then a student at the Citadel Military College of South Carolina, traveled to Washington, D.C., with two acquaintances. He attended President Trump’s rally and later breached the Capitol. During his time inside the building, he carried a metal pole and entered several parts of the building, reportedly searching for an acquaintance.

Irizarry later pleaded guilty to entering and remaining in a restricted building. He received a 14-day incarceration sentence but was pardoned by Mr. Trump on the first day of his second term.

In a 2023 sentencing hearing, Irizarry expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to law enforcement and acknowledging his wrongdoing. His public defender highlighted Irizarry’s distinction from other riot defendants, noting his lack of extremist beliefs.

Judge Tanya Chutkan, who presided over the case, found Irizarry’s sentencing challenging due to his age and commendable background. She offered to write him a recommendation if he reapplied to the Citadel. During the hearing, she remarked on the unpredictability of life and encouraged Irizarry to contribute positively to society.