
A Massachusetts man sparked security concerns at the U.S. Capitol after a concealed firearm was discovered in his possession during a visit.
Quick Takes
- A Massachusetts man was arrested for carrying a handgun during a U.S. Capitol tour.
- The suspect, identified as James A. Faber, age 27, faces charges such as carrying a pistol without a license.
- Security reviews are underway after the man passed through Capitol screening undetected.
- The officer responsible for the security breach has been suspended.
Incident Details
James A. Faber, a 27-year-old from Massachusetts, was arrested after carrying a handgun through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center during a tour. The Capitol Police detained him after discovering a 9mm handgun concealed in his waistband near the Library of Congress. Despite no apparent intent to harm congressional members, the event raised concerns about security procedures. Faber stands accused of carrying an unlicensed firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and resisting arrest.
Authorities from Carlisle, Massachusetts, had alerted Washington officials about Faber due to his social media posts indicating suicidal ideations. Despite an initial interview with law enforcement in Washington without finding a weapon, Faber managed to enter the Capitol premises undetected. Capitol Police, upon realizing the oversight, launched an administrative investigation into the officer’s conduct who failed to identify the firearm during a secondary hand search.
Security Breach and Consequences
The man passed through Capitol Police security at the Visitor Center, raising alarms at a magnetometer. Nevertheless, an officer permitted Faber into the building following a secondary search. Days later, Capitol Police seized him outside the Library of Congress with a firearm. The screening process’s failure has ignited calls for improved visitor security checks within Congress. Capitol Police enacted a full review and mandated security training due to this incident to prevent future breaches.
“Demands the highest standards when it comes to screening visitors, so a full review of this incident has already been ordered, as well as mandatory refresher training on security screening, so this never happens again” – Capitol police
The suspended officer, as part of the security breach, underscores the need for robust procedures, emphasizing the importance of consistent accuracy and vigilance to maintain high security standards at the Capitol.
Impact and Future Measures
The Capitol Police’s review intends to reinforce security protocols and ensure the safety of all individuals at the Capitol. This incident has prompted Congress to discuss additional security investments, including advanced technology and greater personnel training. The focus is to secure the Capitol against any potential threats effectively.
“The officer is suspended while the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility is conducting an administrative investigation into the officer’s performance of that search.” – police
As the investigation proceeds through the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Capitol Police remain committed to maintaining a secure environment, learning from this breach, and improving all facets of their security practices for the future.
Sources
1. Mass. man arrested for possessing gun on U.S. Capitol tour
2. Security breach at US Capitol: ABC News exclusive
3. Massachusetts man arrested after bringing gun on tour of US Capitol, police say