Morelle Staffer Fired After Arrest for Ammunition Possession

Congressman Joe Morelle represents New York’s 25th Congressional District, which includes Monroe County and a section of neighboring Orleans County.

Michael Hopkins, a staff member for Rep. Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.), was arrested on Monday morning in Washington D.C. after Capitol Police discovered ammunition in his bag during routine security screening at the Cannon House Office Building.

Hopkins, 38, who served as Morelle's communications director, claimed he "forgot" the ammunition was in his possession.

The U.S. Capitol Police reported finding four ammunition magazines and 11 rounds of ammunition during a hand search after the items were flagged by an X-ray machine. He has been charged with unlawful possession of ammunition, including a high-capacity magazine.

Rep. Morelle's office initially stated they were gathering information and committed to cooperating fully with the investigation. Later, they confirmed that Hopkins was no longer employed following the incident. Morelle emphasized his dedication to workplace safety in a statement.

The arrest comes amid heightened concerns over security in Congress, following recent threats against lawmakers. The investigation is ongoing, with no additional charges reported as of now.

Sources: Fox News, RochesterFirst, Washington Examiner.