Jamaal Bowman Pleads Guilty to Falsely Pulling Fire Alarm
Congressman Admits to Misdemeanor Charge
Image of Incident Released
Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a New York Democrat, pleaded guilty Thursday to a misdemeanor charge for falsely pulling a fire alarm in a House office building. The incident occurred on June 22, 2022, while Bowman and his fellow Democrats were protesting outside the office of Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Bowman admitted to pulling the fire alarm to draw attention to the group's demands, which included passing legislation to address climate change and gun violence. He stated that he believed the alarm was necessary to create a sense of urgency and to force Pelosi to meet with them.
Prosecutors had initially charged Bowman with a felony, but agreed to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor after he agreed to plead guilty. As part of the plea deal, Bowman was sentenced to two years of probation. He was also ordered to pay a $500 fine and complete 30 hours of community service.
Bowman's actions have been condemned by Republicans and some Democrats. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy called the incident "a dangerous and irresponsible stunt." Pelosi said that she was "disappointed" by Bowman's actions and that he had "put the lives of others at risk."
Bowman has defended his actions, saying that he was not trying to cause harm and that he believed the fire alarm was the only way to get Pelosi's attention. He has also said that he is "deeply sorry" for any inconvenience or distress that his actions may have caused.
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