Capitol Police Detain Staffer Linked to Representative Over Ammunition Charges

United States House of Representatives emblem on a podium.

A congressional staffer’s arrest at the U.S. Capitol for ammunition possession raises questions about security and oversight.

At a Glance

Michael Hopkins, staffer for Rep. Joe Morelle, arrested for possessing ammunition at U.S. Capitol
Four magazines and 11 rounds found during security screening
Hopkins claims he forgot the ammunition was in his bag
Charges filed for unlawful possession, including high-capacity magazine
Hopkins no longer employed by Rep. Morelle’s office following the incident

Arrest at the Capitol

U.S. Capitol Police arrested Michael Hopkins, a staffer for Representative Joe Morelle (D-NY), after discovering ammunition in his bag during a routine security screening. The incident has highlighted the strict security measures in place at the Capitol and the consequences of violating them, even unintentionally.

According to reports, Hopkins was found with four ammunition magazines and 11 rounds, but no firearm was recovered. The staffer reportedly told officers that he had forgotten the ammunition was in his bag, a claim that has not shielded him from legal repercussions.

Congressional staffer arrested at US Capitol with ammunition, police say https://t.co/nn5ewwJYmw pic.twitter.com/m4fvzj7zPG

— Reuters (@Reuters) December 2, 2024

Legal Consequences and Employment Termination

Hopkins now faces charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, including possession of a high-capacity magazine. Washington, D.C. has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, with a 10-round limit on magazines and a complete ban on firearms on Capitol premises.

Following the incident, Representative Morelle’s office swiftly responded by terminating Hopkins’ employment. Jo Stiles, Morelle’s chief of staff, stated that Hopkins is “no longer employed” by the office, effective immediately.

Rep. Morelle’s Office Responds

Representative Joe Morelle, who has represented New York’s 25th Congressional District since 2018, serves as the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration. This committee oversees House operations and Capitol security, making the incident particularly sensitive for Morelle’s office.

“Our office is fully committed to cooperating with the investigation. As Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, Congressman Morelle is devoted to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for all” read Morelle’s office statement.

The statement emphasizes the office’s commitment to workplace safety and full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. This incident serves as a reminder of the zero-tolerance policy for weapons and ammunition on Capitol grounds, regardless of legal registration in other states.