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Congressman Morelle’s Chief of Staff, Jo Stiles, issued a statement in response to the arrest, confirming that the office had been informed of the incident.
“This morning, our office was informed that a member of our staff was arrested by Capitol Police,” Stiles said. “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.”
This incident has renewed attention on the District of Columbia’s strict regulations concerning firearms and ammunition. Under D.C. law, possessing ammunition without a valid firearm registration certificate is illegal. The District enforces some of the nation’s toughest firearm laws, designed to deter gun violence and ensure public safety.
“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,” Capitol Police stated in an official release.
“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 continued.
The arrest has placed Congressman Morelle, a staunch advocate for comprehensive gun reform, under additional scrutiny. Representing New York’s 25th district, Morelle has sponsored and co-sponsored several legislative initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence and promoting public safety. His efforts have focused on closing loopholes, strengthening background checks, and restricting access to high-capacity weapons.
Ironically, the arrest of one of his staffers on charges related to ammunition possession contrasts sharply with Morelle’s public stance on gun control.
Morelle’s office released another statement on Monday morning, reinforcing their commitment to transparency and cooperation with authorities.
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“Our office is fully committed to cooperating with the investigation,” the statement reiterated. “As Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, Congressman Morelle is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for everyone.”
This incident comes amid heightened partisanship and intensified scrutiny surrounding lawmakers and their staff in Washington, D.C. The discovery of ammunition within such a high-security environment has raised questions about security protocols and compliance with federal laws governing firearms and ammunition possession.
As the investigation unfolds, Hopkins’ case will likely serve as a reminder of the stringent firearm and ammunition regulations in place in the nation’s capital. It may also amplify ongoing debates about the balance between personal responsibility and public safety in the realm of gun reform.
