Colorado Pastor Arrested in Connection with Jan. 6 Capitol Insurrection

Tyler Ethridge, a 33-year-old pastor from Colorado Springs, faces six charges in federal court for his alleged involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. The charges include one felony count of civil disorder and five misdemeanors. Ethridge is among at least 14 Coloradans arrested in connection with the insurrection, which disrupted the certification of the 2020 presidential election.

According to his arrest affidavit, Ethridge helped tear down a fence outside the Capitol and climbed a media scaffolding to urge the crowd to continue advancing. He spent approximately 30 minutes inside the building, where he filmed several videos that he later posted on social media. In one of these videos, Ethridge stated, “We stormed the Capitol,” and expressed hope that his actions would not result in jail time. He also claimed that Christians should “infiltrate every area of society” peacefully, though he acknowledged that “aggression” might be necessary to overcome barriers.

A tipster who knew Ethridge from Charis Bible College in Woodland Park identified him to federal authorities as one of the rioters. During an interview with investigators, Ethridge claimed he was offered an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington by a friend to attend then-President Donald Trump’s rally on Jan. 6. He described marching with the crowd and entering the Capitol but denied tearing down the fence. Investigators later found video footage showing him dismantling it.

Ethridge showed no remorse for his actions in social media posts following the riot, according to the complaint. He was arrested in Denver on Thursday and had previously posted on Facebook, stating, “I will finally be arrested and charged for my involvement at the Capitol tomorrow in Denver.”

The case highlights the legal consequences of actions taken during the insurrection, emphasizing the importance of accountability and the rule of law. It also underscores the need for individuals in positions of spiritual leadership to model behavior that aligns with principles of peace, justice, and service.

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