Washington: Donald Trump's companion Steve Bannon surrenders after charges by the FBI

Enlarge image

Steve Bannon outside the FBI office in Washington: He faces a prison sentence of between 30 days and a year

Photo: Carolyn Kaster / AP

"Tomorrow all hell breaks loose": Because of his statements, Steve Bannon is suspected of having had early knowledge of the violent protests in front of the US Capitol.

Former chief strategist of ex-President Donald Trump, Steve Bannon, has surrendered to the authorities after being charged with disregard for Congress.

The Federal Police FBI announced that Bannon had appeared in the Washington office of the agency on Monday and had himself arrested.

He was expected to appear in federal court later that day.

Congressional disregard charges

The 67-year-old was charged on Friday for disobeying Congress on two counts.

Bannon is accused of defying the House of Representatives summons to forcibly storm the Capitol, the US Department of Justice said on Friday.

In addition, he did not provide the body with the required documents.

If convicted, Bannon could face a prison sentence of at least 30 days and up to a year per charge.

After Bannon refused to cooperate in the investigation, the House of Representatives and a majority of the Democrats paved the way for criminal action against him in late October.

The decision on a possible charge was then the responsibility of the Justice Department.

Supporters of Republican Trump stormed the seat of the US Congress on January 6th.

Five people were killed, including a police officer.

Trump had to face impeachment proceedings because of the attack because he had previously incited his supporters in a speech.

In the end, however, he was acquitted.

Bannon, in turn, is suspected of having had prior knowledge of plans for violent protests.

The day before he had said in his podcast, among other things: "Tomorrow all hell breaks loose."

muk / dpa