A Latino woman from Florida’s Republican party, Barbara Balmaseda, has been indicted on five charges related to her alleged actions during the Jan. 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol. The charges include corrupt obstruction of an official proceeding, entering and remaining in a restricted building, engaging in disorderly conduct in a Capitol building with the intent to impede a session of Congress, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building. Balmaseda, the daughter of Cuban immigrants, is scheduled to appear for a hearing on June 27 before Magistrate Judge Robin Meriweather.
In a statement, Balmaseda’s attorney Nayib Hassan stated that they have entered a plea of not guilty and look forward to presenting a vigorous defense on her behalf. The lawyer also mentioned that they are awaiting a ruling from the Supreme Court on allegations relating to witness tampering, as it may impact Balmaseda’s case.
Balmaseda was initially arrested in December 2023 on felony and misdemeanor charges related to the Capitol breach. Prosecutors allege that she traveled from Florida to Washington, D.C., to protest the 2020 presidential election results. Prior to her arrival, Balmaseda exchanged messages reflecting her belief that the election had been stolen and her knowledge of the certification process scheduled for Jan. 6, 2021.
Associates of Balmaseda allegedly included Gabriel Garcia, a member of the Proud Boys, who was convicted of felony charges related to the Capitol breach. Prosecutors claim that Balmaseda was photographed at Black Lives Matter Plaza in D.C. on the day of the breach and was seen alongside a mob of rioters at the Capitol grounds. She allegedly climbed equipment to gain access to the Capitol’s northwest stairs, entered the building, and moved towards the crypt and Rotunda.
Overall, more than 1,420 people across the U.S. have been charged for their alleged involvement in the Jan. 6 riot, according to the Department of Justice. Can you please rephrase this sentence?
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