A routine security screening at the Cannon House Office Building revealed an unexpected discovery involving a staff member of Representative Joe Morelle.
According to Fox News, Michael Hopkins, a 38-year-old House Democrat staff member, was arrested by U.S. Capitol Police after attempting to bring ammunition into the building through security checkpoints.
The incident unfolded Thursday morning at approximately 8:45 a.m. when security officers detected suspicious items during the x-ray screening of Hopkins' bag. The discovery led to immediate action by Capitol Police, who conducted a thorough hand search of the belongings.
Security Protocol Breach Leads to Arrest
The search of Hopkins' bag revealed a concerning cache of ammunition, including four magazines and eleven rounds. The staff member, who works for Representative Joe Morelle of New York's 25th Congressional District, claimed he had forgotten the ammunition was in his possession.
Capitol Police took swift action following the discovery, charging Hopkins with unlawful possession of ammunition. The charges specifically include one count related to the possession of a high-capacity magazine, highlighting the serious nature of the security breach.
The incident has prompted immediate cooperation from Representative Morelle's office, which emphasized its commitment to maintaining workplace safety. The office has pledged full support to the ongoing investigation while gathering additional information about the circumstances.
Congressional Office Responds to Security Incident
Representative Morelle's office issued a statement addressing the situation, emphasizing their active involvement in the investigation process. In their capacity as Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, the office highlighted their dedication to workplace security.
The U.S. Capitol Police provided details about the morning's events through an official statement:
At approximately 8:45 a.m., a House staffer entered the Cannon House Office Building and put his bag through screening. 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.
The incident has drawn particular attention given Representative Morelle's position as Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, which oversees various aspects of Congressional operations and security.
Investigation Unfolds Amid Enhanced Security Measures
The arrest highlights the effectiveness of existing security protocols at Congressional buildings, demonstrating the vigilance of Capitol Police in maintaining safety standards. Security measures have remained a top priority, particularly in the wake of various threats to government facilities.
The Rochester-based congressional office continues to monitor the situation while maintaining its regular operations. Representative Morelle's team has emphasized their commitment to transparency throughout the investigation process.
This incident serves as a reminder of the strict security protocols in place at government buildings and the serious consequences of their violation, whether intentional or inadvertent.
Developing Situation Under Scrutiny
Michael Hopkins, a staff member for Representative Joe Morelle, faces serious charges following his attempt to bring ammunition into the Cannon House Office Building. The incident occurred during a routine security screening when Capitol Police discovered unauthorized ammunition in his bag, leading to his immediate arrest.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the presence of ammunition in Hopkins' possession. Representative Morelle's office maintains its commitment to workplace safety while cooperating fully with law enforcement as they pursue their inquiry into this security breach at one of Congress's primary office buildings.
