The U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged a Chicago man with assaulting a federal employee outside the Dirksen Federal Building in downtown Chicago. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when Joshua Rowell, 36, allegedly approached the victim from behind and punched her on the side of her face. According to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court, the force of the punch caused the victim to stumble into Jackson Boulevard.
The victim, who is an employee of the federal judiciary, was performing her official duties at the time of the assault. She sustained a concussion and received medical treatment at a local hospital.
Chicago Police apprehended Rowell approximately an hour after the alleged attack. He remains in custody and faces one count of forcible assault of a federal employee, which carries a maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison. A date for his initial court appearance has not yet been set.
The charges were announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; LaDon A. Reynolds, United States Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois; and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Maione is representing the government.
U.S. Attorney Boutros stated: “Under my leadership, there will be zero tolerance for attacks against federal employees or attacks at the federal courthouse or any other federal government building or land in the Northern District of Illinois.” He emphasized that individuals should be able to work and enjoy downtown Chicago without fear.
Earlier this month, Boutros introduced new Project Safe Neighborhoods enforcement zones across economic centers in Chicago and throughout its rail system operated by CTA.
It is important to note that a complaint does not equate to evidence of guilt; Rowell is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court proceedings.
