State Capitol intruder left knife stuck in podium

State Capitol intruder leaves knife
Robert Joseph Anderson is facing felony charges after authorities say he entered the State Capitol Tuesday and stuck a knife into a podium in the House chamber.
Courtesy of Ramsey County

A Minneapolis man is facing felony charges after authorities say he entered the State Capitol and stuck a knife into a podium in the House chamber.

Robert Joseph Anderson, 47, was charged Wednesday in Ramsey County District Court with first- and second-degree burglary, along with threats of violence.

According to the complaint, the House's assistant sergeant-at-arms saw Anderson hanging signs around the chamber Tuesday evening. They referenced religion, war on his family and murders.

Anderson said he was there to see a senator. Fearing for her safety, the sergeant-at-arms left and called the State Patrol.

Troopers found a large knife stuck in the lectern. Under the blade was a restraining order against Anderson requested by a woman in Washington County, who authorities say is safe.

Anderson is being held in the Ramsey County jail.

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