A surveillance video released on Thursday unveils a different narrative surrounding Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s fire alarm incident, which occurred last month and led to the evacuation of a House office building. The footage shows that the far-left lawmaker hastily removed emergency exit signs from nearby doors and triggered the fire alarm intentionally.

 

Contrary to Bowman’s initial explanation that he accidentally pulled the fire alarm while trying to access a closed door, the video shows that he tried to open the door to activate the fire alarm. Critics, including Rep. Matt Gaetz, emphasized the intent behind his actions.

The signs on the emergency exit door read, “Emergency Exit Only! Push until alarm sounds (3 seconds). Door will unlock in 30 seconds.” This contradicts Bowman’s claim that he believed the alarm would open the door.

The video stirred further controversy, with calls for Bowman to be censured for his actions. The incident took place while lawmakers were rushing to vote on legislation to avert a partial government shutdown.

Bowman has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of falsely pulling a fire alarm and agreed to write an apology letter to the Capitol Police chief. The charge may be dismissed in three months if he doesn’t commit a repeat offense.

US Capitol Police clarified that their General Counsel did not make the determination regarding Bowman’s case, as earlier claimed. Instead, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office reviewed the case.

While some of Bowman’s Democratic colleagues defended him at the time, Rep. Lisa McClain is proposing a resolution to rebuke him over his actions. Bowman is scheduled to return to court for a hearing on January 29, 2024, to assess his compliance with the deal and consider dismissing the charge.

{Matzav.com}