A man from New York, who authorities say is linked to the Proud Boys and goes by the nickname “Buzzsaw,” has been arrested for his alleged role in the U.S. Capitol riots on January 6, 2021. Walter Joseph Wentland, 31, faces several charges, including obstructing law enforcement during a civil disorder, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and picketing in a Capitol building, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Court documents reveal that Wentland was spotted in photos and videos taken that day in Washington, D.C., marching with a group of Proud Boys toward the Capitol. He stood out with his black helmet and vest covered in patches, including ones that read “Proud Boys,” “Three-Percenter,” and “Taxation is Theft.”
Once near the Capitol, Wentland confronted police officers, shouting through a bullhorn. Some of his remarks reportedly included, “Where’s your f—ing oath?” and “We used to back the blue, but now you’re Oathbreakers, and we can’t stand you.”
Prosecutors allege that Wentland grabbed two officers near the northwest stairs of the Capitol and later made his way to the Upper West Terrace. From there, he entered the Capitol building through the Senate Wing Door at approximately 2:26 p.m. Once inside, Wentland briefly walked down a hallway before turning around and leaving about three minutes later, officials said.
The arrest happened in New York after someone from the Hudson Valley, who is also associated with the Proud Boys, recognized Wentland in photos from the Capitol and tipped off the FBI. This tipster identified him by his nickname “Buzzsaw” and mentioned that Wentland often used a megaphone during public events.
The FBI also confirmed his identity through another witness who had worked with Wentland at Stewart International Airport in New Windsor between 2019 and 2023. According to this witness, Wentland often shared strong opinions and had bragged to his coworkers about being in Washington, D.C., on January 6, 2021.
Wentland is one of many Proud Boys members who have faced legal trouble for their actions during the Capitol riots. In recent news, a former Army captain and Proud Boys member from Florida was sentenced to a year in prison for helping to organize the events of January 6. Another high-profile Proud Boys figure, Henry “Enrique” Tarrio, who is currently in prison, recently made headlines for refusing to cooperate during a trial related to a police officer accused of leaking information about his arrest warrant.
Since the Capitol attack, authorities have charged over 1,570 people with crimes related to the incident. This case is part of the ongoing effort to hold those responsible for the breach accountable.
