Capitol Staffer Fired After Ammo Arrest

Michael Hopkins, a communications director for Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.), was arrested at the U.S. Capitol for carrying four ammunition magazines and eleven rounds of ammunition in his bag. The ammunition was detected during a routine X-ray screening at the Cannon House Office Building. Hopkins claimed he forgot the ammunition was in his bag and is now facing charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, including possession of a high-capacity magazine. In response to the incident, Hopkins was immediately terminated from his position in Morelle's office, which has stated its commitment to cooperating with the investigation. Morelle, as the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe workplace. No firearm was found during the arrest, and further details about the investigation are awaited.