Michael Hopkins, communications director for New York Democratic Congressman Joe Morrell, was arrested by Capitol Police on Monday morning after he allegedly tried to enter a House office building with ammunition and high-capacity magazines. Hopkins claimed he “forgot” there was ammunition in his bag.
Morrell's office initially confirmed the incident but did not release the reason for the arrest or the identity of the employee. Capitol Police later released a statement corroborating the incident and detailing the arrest.
“Michael Hopkins, 38, has been arrested and charged with unlawful possession of ammunition, including possession of a large capacity magazine.”
“This morning, our office was informed that a member of our staff has been arrested by Capitol Police,” Morrell's office said. said in a statement Monday. “We are currently gathering further information regarding the circumstances of the arrest.”
“Our office will fully cooperate with the investigation,” the statement continued. “As the ranking member of the House Administration Committee, Rep. Morrell is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for everyone.”
Capitol Police said Hopkins was arrested and charged with illegal possession of ammunition.
“At approximately 8:45 a.m., House staff entered the Cannon House office building and submitted the bag for inspection,” Capitol Police said. said In a statement. “USCP officers noticed what appeared to be ammunition on the X-ray screen.”
“After a manual search of the bag, officers located four ammunition magazines and 11 rounds of ammunition,” the statement continued. “The employee told officers he forgot the ammunition was in his bag. Michael Hopkins, 38, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of ammunition, including possession of a large capacity magazine. .”
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