WASHINGTON — The communications director for Rep. Joe Morelle is facing charges after U.S. Capitol Police said they found ammunition in his bag on Monday and has been fired.

Capitol Police say they found Michael Hopkins, 38, with four ammunition magazines and eleven rounds during a routine x-ray screening. It happened around 8:45 a.m. as the House staffer was entering the Cannon House Office Building.

Hopkins is charged with unlawful possession of ammunition including a high-capacity magazine. According to Capitol Police, Hopkins told them he forgot that the ammunition was in his bag.

Rep. Morelle’s office confirmed the arrest, releasing this statement:

“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.”

Later Monday afternoon around 4 p.m., Morelle’s office released a second statement, reading:

“In response to this morning’s incident, Mr. Hopkins is no longer employed by Representative Morelle’s office effective immediately.”

News10NBC asked if Congressman Morelle would be available for an interview, but he was not. His earlier statement said that as a ranking member of the Committee on House Administration, he is tasked with the safety of the Capitol buildings and is “devoted to ensuring a safe and secure workplace for all.”