WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the world watched in shock at the violent events that unfolded at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, former U.S. Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell was among the brave officers on the frontlines.
Sgt. Gonell recently reflected on the harrowing attack that took place three years ago, sharing his personal experience and the aftermath of that fateful day. Despite surviving the ordeal, he made the difficult decision to leave the USCP in December 2022 after more than 16 years of service due to the physical and emotional toll of the events on January 6.
Gonell recounted the intense combat he witnessed in the tunnels of the Capitol building, where he was stationed during the attack. He described experiencing fear for his life and sustaining injuries to his hands and feet, including the shocking detail of being attacked with the American flag that he holds so dear to his heart as an immigrant from the Dominican Republic.
In addition to his service with the USCP, Gonell had also served in the Army and fought in the Iraq War before dedicating himself to law enforcement. His commitment to public service led him to testify before the House Select Committee investigating the Capitol attack in July 2021, where he expressed that he had felt more fear at the Capitol than during his entire deployment in Iraq.
Despite the physical and emotional challenges he has faced, Gonell remains determined to seek justice. He has been involved in legal proceedings against numerous individuals accused of assaulting him during the attack, with the statute of limitations for charges related to the events of January 6 extending for five years.
Looking forward, Gonell expressed concerns about the potential for another similar attack, especially with the upcoming 2024 presidential election. He emphasized the need to prevent such events from recurring and to ensure the protection of democracy and the Capitol.
Despite differing political perspectives on the January 6 attack, the enduring impact on brave individuals like Sgt. Aquilino Gonell serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of such events. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath, his story underscores the importance of acknowledging the gravity of the Capitol attack and working to safeguard the principles of democracy.