Key Takeaways:

• Michael Hopkins, a senior staffer for Rep. Joe Morelle, was arrested for carrying ammunition, including high-capacity magazines, into the Capitol, highlighting security compliance issues.
• Rep. Morelle’s office confirmed Hopkins is no longer employed and emphasized their commitment to workplace safety and cooperation with law enforcement.
• The incident raises broader concerns about adherence to Capitol security protocols and comes under scrutiny given Morelle’s advocacy for gun control.

Michael Hopkins, the communications director for Democratic Rep. Joe Morelle of New York, was arrested Monday morning for carrying ammunition into the Cannon House Office Building, according to U.S. Capitol Police (USCP).

USCP officers conducting routine security screening noticed ammunition through an X-ray scanner at approximately 8:45 a.m.

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“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 USCP said in a statement.

Hopkins, 38, reportedly told officers he had forgotten the ammunition was in his bag.

From US Capitol Police:

“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… https://t.co/p0ODHNZLnQ

— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) December 2, 2024

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Despite the explanation, he was taken into custody and charged with unlawful possession of ammunition, including one count related to a high-capacity magazine.

The arrest raises concerns about security protocols and compliance within the workplace, particularly as Hopkins was a senior staffer for Rep. Morelle, who serves as the ranking member of the Committee on House Administration—a key body overseeing security matters in the Capitol.

Rep. Morelle’s office responded initially by stating they were cooperating fully with law enforcement and looking into the circumstances of the arrest.

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

Later in the day, the congressman’s office confirmed to the Daily Caller News Foundation that Hopkins was no longer employed by the office.

The incident highlights heightened security concerns at Capitol Hill, where strict rules govern the possession and transportation of firearms and ammunition.

Hopkins’ arrest follows a series of recent reminders from law enforcement emphasizing adherence to security protocols.

Authorities did not immediately disclose whether Hopkins intended to use the ammunition or if the oversight posed a significant threat.

However, the incident underscores the need for diligence among Capitol staff and heightened awareness of the regulations governing access to the nation’s legislative buildings.

Rep. Morelle, a Democrat representing New York’s 25th District, has long been an advocate for gun control measures.

The arrest of his senior staffer for carrying ammunition will likely draw scrutiny, especially given the representative’s position on workplace safety and security.

As of Monday evening, no further details about Hopkins’ case had been released. The charges carry significant legal ramifications, including potential fines and jail time, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

This piece was written by RVM News Staff on December 3, 2024. It originally appeared in RVMNews and is used by permission.

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