A man was arrested after reportedly driving a moped into the White House complex Sunday, according to unsealed federal documents.
The incident happened about 6:33 p.m. Sunday at the White House complex, which includes the mansion and the White House grounds, a restricted area. At that time, Secret Service noticed a moped with a Texas license plate breaking the barrier at the gate located at Alexander Hamilton and 15th Street NW, according to files obtained by Robert Snell, federal court reporter for the Detroit News.
The moped, which was driving at a high rate of speed, reportedly entered inside the area when the exit gate was opened for an authorized vehicle. Secret Service Officer Daniel Mullen witnessed the suspect, Eric Manigold, turning from Alexander Hamilton southbound to East Executive Avenue, NW. Mullen gave a vocal order to Manigold to stop, but he continued to proceed. Officers then drew their service-issued weapons and gave commands. Manigold responded by exiting the moped and surrendering. He also revealed he had a knife and marijuana on him.
Manigold was charged with unlawfully entering the restricted area.
Around Thanksgiving last year, a similar incident occurred when a Mercedes with Texas plates was stopped and the individual was taken into custody by Secret Service. The D.C. Police Department identified the driver as Joy Utokanandu of Grand Prairie, Texas.
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