In a move that will infuriate every patriotic American, the Afghan national accused of gunning down two National Guard members in our nation's capital has pleaded not guilty to all charges - despite overwhelming evidence of his deadly ambush attack.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, stood before a federal judge Wednesday as his lawyer entered not guilty pleas for all nine federal charges, including first-degree murder for the killing of one brave National Guard member and the critical wounding of another near the White House last November.
The brazen attack occurred just before Thanksgiving, when Lakanwal allegedly opened fire on American servicemen who were protecting our capital. One hero made the ultimate sacrifice, while another fights for his life - all while this foreign national now claims innocence.
Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk broke the news on social media, posting: "BREAKING: Rahmanullah Lakanwal, Afghan national accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, DC, pleads not guilty, government signals pursuit of death penalty."
Thankfully, federal prosecutors are not backing down. They've signaled they may pursue the death penalty against this foreign attacker who brought violence to American soil and murdered one of our own.
"The arraignment for Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man accused of shooting two National Guard members in DC before Thanksgiving wrapped up after about 30 mins. Lakanwal's lawyer pled not guilty on his behalf for all 9 federal charges," reported journalist Hannah Brandt, noting the judge set the next court date for May 6.
This case perfectly illustrates the dangers of failed immigration policies that allowed dangerous individuals into our country. How many more American heroes must pay the price for political correctness and weak border security?
The Trump administration's tough stance on immigration and national security couldn't come at a better time. These National Guard members were serving their country, protecting our capital, and one paid with his life at the hands of someone who shouldn't have been here in the first place.
Will justice finally be served for our fallen hero? The death penalty is exactly what this case demands.