Staffer For Democratic Rep Arrested For Carrying Ammunition Onto Capitol Property

Michael Hopkins, a communications director for Democratic New York Rep. Joe Morelle, was arrested Monday for carrying ammunition inside the Cannon House Office Building.

Officials with the United States Capitol Police (USCP) spotted ammunition through an X-ray screening Monday morning.

“At approximately 8:45 a.m., a House staffer entered the Cannon House Office Building and put his bag through screening,” the USCP said. “USCP officers noticed what appeared to be ammunition on the x-ray screen. After a hand search of the bag, officers found four ammunition magazines and eleven rounds of ammunition. The staffer told the officers that he forgot the ammunition was in the bag.  38-year-old Michael Hopkins was arrested, and he is facing charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, including one charge for possession of a high-capacity magazine.”

Morelle’s office initially said they were looking into the “circumstances of the arrest” and were fully cooperating with the investigation, according to Politico.

“As Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, Congressman Morelle is devoted to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for all,” Morelle’s office said in a statement.

Morelle’s office later confirmed to the Daily Caller News Foundation that Hopkins is no longer employed with the congressman’s office.