Weapons banned during Jan. 20 Capitol events

Gov. Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency Wednesday afternoon in advance of expected demonstrations on Capitol Square on Monday, Jan. 20.

“Law enforcement intelligence analysts have identified credible threats of violence surrounding the event, along with white nationalist rhetoric and plans by out-of-state militia groups to attend,” according to a press release from the governor’s office.

The governor’s declaration prohibits all weapons, including firearms, from Capitol grounds.

The emergency declaration extends from Friday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. until Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 5 p.m.