Rep. Joe Morelle's Aide Michael Hopkins Arrested with High-Capacity Ammo at Capitol

Dec 2, 2024, 05:15 PM

Michael Hopkins, the 38-year-old communications director for Representative Joe Morelle of New York, was arrested on Monday morning at approximately 8:45 a.m. by U.S. Capitol Police after ammunition was found in his bag during security screening at the Cannon House Office Building. Officers noticed what appeared to be ammunition on the x-ray machine, and a hand search revealed four ammunition magazines and 11 rounds of ammunition. Hopkins faces charges of unlawful possession of ammunition, including one charge for possession of a high-capacity magazine. He reportedly told officers he forgot the ammunition was in his bag and that he holds a license, though not valid in Washington, D.C. Representative Morelle's office, where Hopkins serves as communications director, stated they are gathering more information and are fully cooperating with the investigation. Morelle is the ranking member of the House Administration Committee.