WASHINGTON — A Maryland attorney and former federal employee is facing felony charges after allegedly spitting on two uniformed National Guard personnel near Union Station in the nation’s capital.
According to Breitbart, Scott J. Pichon, formerly with the U.S. Department of Transportation, was arrested Tuesday on a federal warrant after a Friday confrontation in which saliva reportedly struck the face and neck of servicemembers standing outside the transit hub.
The incident occurred outside Union Station in Washington, D.C., when two National Guardsmen in uniform were allegedly subjected to physical contact by Pichon. Law enforcement officials report that Pichon projected bodily fluids at the individuals, which landed on one Guardsman's facial area and the other’s neck.
According to statements recorded in police court filings, the confrontation was reported by Amtrak Police Sergeant Robert Underwood. The details of the report allege that Pichon forcefully spat a mixture of saliva and mucus at the guards during the incident.
Authorities acted on the report over the weekend and secured a federal warrant for Pichon’s arrest. He was taken into custody on Tuesday, several days after the incident, and was later brought before a magistrate to face a formal charge.
Former DOT staffer worked on equity policies
Pichon, a current resident of Maryland, worked for the U.S. Department of Transportation from June 2019 until June 2024. During his tenure in the federal government, he held multiple positions, most recently with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), an agency within the DOT.
As an employee classified as an “equal opportunity specialist,” Pichon contributed to efforts promoting accessibility and fairness in public transportation programs. His responsibilities involved ensuring compliance with regulations designed to provide equitable services nationwide.
An archived biography listed on the American Public Transportation Association’s website described his role as focusing on regulatory oversight to promote equitable and accessible public transit for all Americans. His LinkedIn account, which previously reflected his government experience, has since been removed or taken down.
Federal court releases Pichon after hearing
Following his arrest on felony assault charges, Pichon appeared in federal court before Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey. The judge allowed Pichon to be released on his own recognizance, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office did not oppose his conditional release.
Pichon now awaits a preliminary hearing, which is scheduled for September 16. At that time, the court will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with formal prosecution for the assault allegations.
So far, no statements have been released from Pichon or his legal counsel regarding the incident. The motivation behind the alleged attack remains unspecified in court documents.
Officers confirm details of confrontation
Sgt. Underwood’s report remains the primary source of official detail about the confrontation. The account has been filed with the court and corroborated by statements from the affected servicemembers.
Authorities have not disclosed whether additional evidence—such as surveillance footage or witness testimony—exists to support the charges. There have also been no reports to suggest any pre-existing relationship or confrontation between Pichon and the Guardsmen before the incident occurred.
The National Guard has yet to issue a public statement in response to the situation. Both servicemembers involved reportedly sustained no physical injuries beyond contact with bodily fluids.
Case raises questions about civility, consequences
Charges such as those filed against Pichon fall under federal statutes that prohibit physical or forcible contact with members of the armed services. These laws are frequently enforced in incidents where attempts to interfere with or insult uniformed personnel occur in public spaces.
If convicted, felony assault involving contact with a federal officer or servicemember may result in significant penalties, including potential jail time or fines. Given his former federal employment, the case against Pichon has drawn particular public attention.
His previous work on civil rights and equity in public services stands in sharp contrast to the allegations now leveled against him. The discrepancy has added a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings ahead.
Public reaction is still developing after the incident
In the days since the story became public, there has been limited public reaction or official commentary from the federal agencies previously affiliated with Pichon. The Department of Transportation has not issued any formal statement about the case or his earlier employment.
The American Public Transportation Association has also not responded to inquiries regarding Pichon’s prior work for their organization or whether any disciplinary actions took place before his federal resignation in 2024.
With a court date set for mid-September, observers are watching to see whether further details about Pichon’s actions—or any potential motive—will emerge during the initial hearings.
Former federal officials rarely face such charges
It is uncommon for individuals who have held significant federal positions to later face criminal proceedings involving assault against military personnel. Pichon’s background and federal service make his case notable both in legal and political circles.
The allegations also cast attention on broader concerns regarding public behavior toward military members in highly visible public spaces. Previous incidents involving confrontations with servicemembers at transportation hubs have led to legislative responses in some states.
For now, the legal process will continue under standard federal procedures. Pichon remains free pending his preliminary hearing and has not indicated whether he plans to challenge the charges or seek a plea agreement.
