A new report is raising serious questions about the promotion and treatment of Lieutenant Michael Bird, the Capitol Hill Police officer who shot Ashley Babbitt on January 6th. The report details Bird’s disciplinary history and suggests he received unusually favorable treatment after the events of that day.
A Troubled Past:
The video highlights a newly released report outlining Bird’s past disciplinary incidents:
- 2004 Incident: Bird discharged his weapon at a fleeing vehicle, later found to be in violation of policy.
- 2015 Incident: Bird engaged in “conduct unbecoming” at a high school football game, including using profanity and jumping a fence.
- 2019 Incident: Bird left his loaded service weapon unattended in a Capitol Visitor Center bathroom for nearly an hour.
- Missing Records: The report notes that records for three additional complaints against Bird are missing.
Favorable Treatment After January 6th:
Despite this history, the report suggests Bird received preferential treatment after January 6th:
- He received a $36,000 retention bonus, significantly larger than those given to other officers.
- There were plans to use a memorial fund, intended for officers killed or injured in the line of duty, to cover his expenses.
- He received security upgrades to his home and temporary housing at hotels and a military base.
- He was instructed not to take a fitness-for-duty evaluation.
- The Capitol Police attempted to provide him with a shotgun, even after he failed a background check.
Subcommittee Investigation:
A House subcommittee is now investigating Bird’s promotion to Captain and the favorable treatment he received, raising concerns about potential political influence. The subcommittee has requested numerous documents and answers from the Capitol Hill Chief of Police.
The Bigger Picture:
The video raises concerns about accountability and potential bias within the Capitol Police, given Bird’s history and the circumstances surrounding his promotion. It questions whether his actions on January 6th are being overlooked or excused due to political considerations.
