Lady Justice
WASHINGTON (Source : AP News) — A trial has begun for Washington Metropolitan Police Department Lt. Shane Lamond, who is accused of leaking confidential information to Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and becoming a “double agent” for the far-right extremist group. The charges stem from Lamond’s alleged actions following the December 2020 burning of a Black Lives Matter banner in Washington, D.C.
Federal prosecutor Joshua Rothstein argued in opening statements that Lamond, a veteran officer who supervised the department’s intelligence branch, was a “Proud Boys sympathizer” who helped the group evade law enforcement. Lamond allegedly provided Tarrio with “real-time updates” on police investigations, including warnings about his impending arrest related to the banner incident. This information, Rothstein argued, allowed the Proud Boys to stay ahead of the police.
Lamond faces charges of obstruction of justice and making false statements to federal investigators. He is accused of lying about his communications with Tarrio and failing to disclose critical information that could have aided the investigation.
Defense attorneys, however, rejected the claim that Lamond was a Proud Boys sympathizer, calling it inflammatory and unsupported by context. Ana Jara, one of Lamond’s attorneys, argued that prosecutors had selectively presented evidence to paint a misleading picture of the officer’s actions.
The trial could also see testimony from Tarrio, who is currently serving a 22-year prison sentence for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot. Tarrio’s involvement in the banner burning and his communications with Lamond have already been central to the case. Tarrio, who was arrested before the Capitol attack, was convicted for his role in the banner’s theft and destruction.
Lamond’s actions were reportedly under scrutiny during Tarrio’s 2023 trial, where it was revealed that the two exchanged hundreds of messages, including updates about law enforcement investigations. Lamond allegedly warned Tarrio on December 25, 2020, that police were seeking a warrant for his arrest.
If convicted, Lamond could face serious consequences for his alleged betrayal of his role as a law enforcement officer. The trial continues with more testimony expected in the coming days.
