House Democrat staff member fired following Capitol Police arrest

A House Democratic staff member has lost his job after allegedly trying to bring ammunition into the Cannon House Office Building this week. 

Michael Hopkins, the 38-year-old communications director for Rep. Joe Morelle, D-N.Y., was arrested Monday morning by the U.S. Capitol Police. 

ā€œIn response to this morning’s incident, Mr. Hopkins is no longer employed by Representative Morelle’s office effective immediately,ā€ Jo Stiles, Chief of Staff to Rep. Morelle, said in a statement obtained by Fox News Digital. 

Capitol Police told Fox News on Monday that ā€œAt 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.ā€ 

US CAPITOL POLICE ARREST HOUSE DEMOCRAT STAFF MEMBER AFTER FINDING AMMUNITION 

Michael Hopkins DC staffer

Michael Hopkins, a staff member for Rep. Joe Morelle, during an interview with Fox5 DC. (Fox5 DC)

ā€œAfter 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,ā€ the statement continued. 

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Joe Morelle

Rep. Joe Morelle interviews witnesses during a House Rules Committee hearing on the impeachment against President Trump, on Dec. 17. 2019. (Jason Andrew/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Capitol Police say Hopkins is now facing charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, including one charge for possession of a high-capacity magazine. 

Morelle’s office said prior to the announcement of Hopkins’ firing that it was gathering more information about the arrest. 

Rep. Joe Morelle

Rep. Joe Morelle speaks during a House Administration Committee hearing in March 2023. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

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ā€œAs Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, Congressman Morelle is devoted to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for all,ā€ it said in a statement. 

Fox News’ Chad Pergram contributed to this report. 

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