A staffer for Democratic Representative Joe Morelle (D-NY) was arrested Friday on Capitol Hill after Capitol Police discovered ammunition in his bag during routine security screening at the Cannon House Office Building. The incident underscores the strict firearms regulations in Washington, D.C., and raises questions about security protocols in Congress.
Michael Hopkins, 38, was charged with unlawful possession of ammunition after officers found four ammunition magazines and eleven rounds of ammunition in his bag. Capitol Police said the discovery was made when Hopkins placed his bag through an X-ray scanner at the checkpoint. While no firearms were found, Hopkins reportedly told officers he had forgotten the ammunition was in his bag.
Capitol Police took Hopkins into custody and charged him with illegal possession of ammunition, including a count for possessing a high-capacity magazine, a violation of D.C. law. The district has some of the toughest gun laws in the country, requiring individuals to hold a valid firearm registration certificate to legally possess ammunition.
The arrest triggered a swift response from Congressman Morelle’s office. Jo Stiles, Morelle’s Chief of Staff, issued a statement acknowledging the incident and pledging cooperation with investigators. “This morning, our office was informed that a member of our staff was arrested by Capitol Police,” Stiles said. “We are currently gathering more information regarding the circumstances of the arrest. Our office is fully committed to cooperating with the investigation.”
Capitol Police detailed the incident in a statement to Fox News, saying the ammunition was detected during the screening process at approximately 8:45 a.m. “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 statement said.
Hopkins’ arrest comes at an awkward time for Morelle, who represents New York’s 25th district and has been a vocal advocate for gun reform. Morelle has championed legislation aimed at reducing gun violence and promoting public safety, which has drawn attention to his staffer’s violation of D.C.’s stringent gun laws.
The incident also highlights the tense atmosphere on Capitol Hill, where heightened security and partisan scrutiny remain pervasive. While Morelle’s office has pledged full cooperation, the arrest underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining security and adhering to strict regulations in the nation’s capital.
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