Louis Geri Arrested with Molotov Cocktail Outside Washington DC Church

A New Jersey man was arrested outside a Washington, D.C. church on Sunday. Louis Geri was taken into custody with a Molotov cocktail. The incident occurred during a special mass for the Supreme Court’s new term.

Police confirmed the arrest at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. Geri had previously been banned from the church grounds. His motive remains under active investigation.

Details of the Arrest and Discovery

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded around 6 a.m. They found Geri, 41, camping in a tent on the church steps. He reportedly refused to leave the area.

Officers then discovered multiple suspicious items inside his tent. These included liquid-filled vials and possible fireworks. The Explosive Ordinance Disposal team was called to the scene.

Authorities formally charged Geri with several offenses. The charges include Unlawful Entry and Threats to Kidnap or Injure a Person. Most seriously, he faces a charge for Possession of a Molotov Cocktail.

The Significance of the Location and Event

The arrest happened during the church’s annual Red Mass. This tradition marks the opening of the Supreme Court’s term. Many justices and public officials typically attend the service.

The front doors of the cathedral were closed as police secured the area. This was a significant security precaution. Church services continued with heightened safety measures in place.

This event follows another recent church attack in Michigan. That separate incident resulted in multiple fatalities. Federal agencies are now involved in the Geri investigation.

The investigation into the Louis Geri DC church arrest continues, with federal authorities now leading the probe into this serious security breach at a high-profile event.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Red Mass?

The Red Mass is a traditional Catholic service. It is held to invoke blessings for those in the justice system. The event coincides with the start of the Supreme Court’s term.

What charges does Louis Geri face?

Geri faces multiple criminal charges. These include Unlawful Entry and Possession of a Molotov Cocktail. The charges reflect the severity of the alleged actions.

Was anyone injured in the incident?

No injuries were reported from this event. Police secured the area before any harm could occur. The situation was contained without violence.

Which agencies are investigating the case?

The Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation. The FBI and ATF are also involved. This is a multi-agency federal response.

Had Louis Geri been to this church before?

Police confirmed Geri was previously banned from the church. The reasons for the prior ban have not been disclosed. This was not his first encounter with the location.

Trusted Sources

Metropolitan Police Department
Joint Terrorism Task Force
Federal Bureau of Investigation