Official statements from Representative Joe Morelle's office or public employment records

Michael Hopkins, Rep. Morelle's Aide, Arrested with High-Capacity Ammunition at Capitol

Dec 2, 2024, 05:42 PM

Michael Hopkins, 38, the communications director for Representative Joe Morelle (D-NY), was arrested on Monday morning by U.S. Capitol Police after attempting to enter the Cannon House Office Building with ammunition in his bag. Security officers discovered four ammunition magazines, including a high-capacity magazine, and eleven rounds of ammunition during routine X-ray screening at approximately 8:45 a.m. No firearm was found in his possession. Hopkins, who holds a firearm license not valid in Washington D.C., reportedly told officers that he forgot the ammunition was in his bag. He faces charges of unlawful possession of ammunition. Representative Morelle's office confirmed the arrest and stated they are gathering more information and fully cooperating with the investigation.