Rep. Troy Nehls Sues Capitol Police for $2.5 Million Over Unauthorized Office Search

Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Capitol Police, claiming $2.5 million in damages for alleged unlawful harassment following the January 6, 2021 incident. The lawsuit arises from a November 2021 event where a Capitol Police officer entered his office, photographed materials including a whiteboard containing legislative notes, and initiated a criminal investigation without consent, violating the Speech and Debate Clause, according to Nehls. He asserts that this intrusion has caused him emotional distress, anxiety, and concerns over his privacy and safety. Nehls disputes the officer's account that the office door was open and argues the contents of the whiteboard were misinterpreted. A 2022 inspector general's report found no fault with the officer's actions but recommended policy updates regarding office security. Nehls characterizes the police's actions as a threat to congressional liberties and his reputation.