Congressional Staffer Arrested for Ammunition

Michael Hopkins, a communications director for Congressman Joe Morelle, was arrested by U.S. Capitol Police after security scans revealed ammunition in his bag while entering the Cannon House Office Building. The police found four ammunition magazines and eleven rounds of ammunition, with Hopkins claiming he forgot the items were in his bag. He faces charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, including possession of a high-capacity magazine. Morelle's office is cooperating with the investigation and emphasizes its commitment to maintaining a secure workplace. This incident marks the second arrest of a congressional staffer for possession of ammunition at the Capitol in three years, highlighting ongoing concerns about security on Capitol grounds. Morelle has recently been re-elected and is a prominent member of the House Administration Committee, which oversees Capitol security.