Woman accused of stealing Pelosi’s laptop blames ex-boyfriend for charges
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The Pennsylvania woman accused of stealing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s laptop during the US Capitol siege is blaming the claims on a vindictive ex-boyfriend.
Riley June Williams, 22, was arrested Monday after an FBI tip from her ex, whose “accusations were overstated,” defense attorney Lori Ulrich said during a federal court appearance Thursday, the Philadelphia Inquirer said.
Ulrich said Williams had even gotten a restraining order against the man and changed her phone number — not to duck federal authorities but to escape the abusive ex.
According to the FBI, the unidentified tipster in the case suggested that Williams planned to sell the laptop to Russia.
“I don’t think it’s as clear as the government is making it in their affidavit of probable cause,” Ulrich said, according to WHP-TV. “There are allegations that will have to be investigated as this case goes on.”
Williams’ former boyfriend, Michael Prodanov, declined to comment to The Post on Thursday other than to say he would present evidence “that will disprove” her claims.
Williams acknowledges that she was part of a mob that stormed the US Capitol following a fiery speech by then-President Donald Trump prior to Congress voting to certify his election loss to Joe Biden.
Ulrich said her client “took the president’s bait” in joining the rioters.
Williams was released to home confinement Thursday after a hearing before US Magistrate Judge Martin Carlson in federal court in Harrisburg.
Ulrich did not immediately return a call seeking comment.
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