Barbara “Barby” Balmaseda, a 23-year-old with ties to the Florida Republican Party, was arrested by federal authorities for her alleged involvement in the Capitol riot on January 6. The arrest comes as a result of a joint effort by the FBI, Marshals, ATF, and Metro-Dade Police. Balmaseda, who interned for Sen. Marco Rubio and was a former campaign organizer for Gov. Ron DeSantis, faces multiple charges, including felony charges related to the riot.
Ties to GOP and Allegations
Balmaseda, an active member of the South Florida GOP, served as the director-at-large of the Miami Young Republicans and acted as a committeewoman for the Party. However, she resigned from her leadership role after photos emerged of her at the Capitol during the riot. The charges against her include attempting to obstruct congressional proceedings, entering a restricted building, and engaging in disorderly conduct in a Capitol building.
Arrest Details and Response
Arrested on December 14 in Miami Lakes, Balmaseda’s attorney, Aubrey Webb, criticized the move as a “waste of law enforcement resources” for what he considers “essentially trespassing charges.” Webb emphasized that Balmaseda is not charged with violence or property destruction. He also drew attention to the FBI’s priorities, suggesting a focus on more severe cases, such as the suspect who left pipe bombs at the DNC and RNC offices on Capitol Hill.
Connection to Proud Boys Member
Balmaseda’s involvement in the federal investigation emerged through messages linking her to Gabriel Garcia, a former Proud Boys member with ties to the Miami-Dade Republican Party Executive Committee. Garcia, who was found guilty of felonies related to the Capitol breach, recorded a video during the riot, showing Balmaseda in the Crypt. The two were also photographed together outside the Capitol, leading to evidence used in the case.
Political Responses
Officials from Rubio’s office and the DeSantis administration have not provided comments on Balmaseda’s arrest. Her attorney expressed relief that the process is moving toward resolution but raised concerns about the DOJ’s “politically-motivated prosecution” of January 6 demonstrators.
Conclusion:
Barbara Balmaseda’s arrest underscores the ongoing legal repercussions of the Capitol riot, revealing connections between political operatives and individuals involved in the events of January 6.
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