US Capitol Police Officer Charged In Off-Duty Crash With Motorcycle

WASHINGTON, DC — A grand jury indicted U.S. Capitol Police Officer Thomas Smith on Thursday in connection with an on-duty crash that occurred in 2020, according to a release.

Around 11:30 p.m, on June 20, 2020, the USCP cruiser that Smith was driving collided with a motorcycle near the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and M Street, Northwest. Smith involved in a high speed chase with two motorcycles prior to the collision, according to the release. Police say that Smith then left the scene, changed vehicles, and later lied about his role in the crash.

Among the charges Smith is facing are one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, one count of obstruction of justice, three counts of falsification of records, and one count of making false statements.

USCP policy prohibits any officer from engaging in a vehicle pursuit outside of U.S. Capitol grounds, except in the case of an emergency or with the prior approval of their supervisor, according to the release.

Following the crash, Smith's police powers were revoked and his pay suspended, pending the resolution of his criminal case. Since the crash occurred in Washington, D.C., the Metropolitan Police Department is altooo conducting its own criminal investigation related to the crash.

“The public’s trust is critical for any law enforcement agency and integrity is the most important quality for any law enforcement officer,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, in a release.