Detective Files For Divorce After Wife’s Participation In US Capital Riot

Michael Heinl, a 30-year member of the Shaler Township Police Department, has filed for divorce from his wife Jennifer Heinl.

The news comes after it was revealed that the woman from Ross Township, Pennsylvania faces several charges for participating in the riots at United States Capitol on Jan. 6. The disapproving husband had tried to persuade his wife to not go to D.C., however footage showing present at the rally right before the insurrection.

Jennifer was charged on Thursday, March 18 for her participation in the riots. She was associated with Kenneth Grayson, who also faces charges in connection with the riot. In January, Grayson had been charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds; disorderly conduct which impedes the conduct of government business; disruptive conduct in the Capitol buildings; parading, demonstrating or picketing in the Capitol buildings; and obstructing or impeding any official proceeding. Following his arrest, his Facebook account was searched by the FBI investigators.

The search revealed conversations between Grayson and Jennifer over Facebook Messenger between Nov. 12, 2020 and Jan. 11, 2021. They had discussed travel arrangements to Washington. Video evidence also showed the duo together at the rally.

When questioned by the police, Jennifer denied traveling to Washington with Grayson. She said that she had only seen him at the rally which she attended alone, WPXI reported.

Police Chief Sean Frank, released a statement regarding Michael’s involvement. He said that the detective had advised his wife against going to the rally. After the incident took place he also informed his Chief about his wife’s attendance at the rally that turned into a riot. The husband reportedly was not aware if Jennifer had entered the U.S. Capitol building.

Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas show revealed that Michael had filed for divorce in February. While the detective is a part of the FBI Pittsburgh office’s Violent Crimes Task Force, he is not a part of the investigation into Jennifer, the Pittsburg Post-Gazette reported.

Having waived her right to an identity hearing, Jennifer’s preliminary hearing will take place on March 24. The federal charges against her include violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building