Dem staffer arrested for bringing ammunition to Capitol

"This morning, our office was informed that a member of our staff was arrested by Capitol Police. We are currently gathering more information regarding the circumstances of the arrest. Our office is fully committed to cooperating with the investigation. As Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, Congressman Morelle is devoted to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for all," Morelle’s chief of staff said in a statement, per Rochester First. Morelle represents the 25th District of New York

Capitol Police commented on the matter in a statement to Fox News and said, "At 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."

"After 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," the statement from Capitol Police added.

Michael Hopkins, 38, the staffer in question, now faces charges of unlawful possession of ammunition as well as one charge of possessing a high-capacity magazine.

Each entrance to the various House and Senate office buildings is equipped with x-ray machines to scan for weapons or other illegal materials when the public as well as employees enter. Small knives can be carried by staff members but not members of the general public. Members of Congress in the Senate or House, however, are allowed to have some types of firearms in their offices.