U.S. Capitol Police Service Weapon Found in Capitol Bathroom

A lieutenant with the U.S. Capitol Police reportedly left his service weapon unattended earlier this week, and it was found later by another Capitol Police officer during a "routine safety sweep."

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February 28, 2019

U.S. Capitol Police Service Weapon Found in Capitol Bathroom

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A lieutenant with the U.S. Capitol Police reportedly left his service weapon unattended earlier this week, and it was found by another Capitol Police officer during a "routine safety sweep."

According to The Hill, Lieutenant Mike Byrd left his Glock 22 in a bathroom in the Capitol Visitor Center complex. Byrd is the commander of the House Chambers section of the Capitol Police.

The Hill reported that this appears to be the first unattended service weapon involving Capitol Police reported since 2015, when the department faced a rash of similar incidents including one where an officer's loaded weapon was found on a toilet seat cover holder.

"The Department takes these matters very seriously, and has a very thorough process to investigate and review incidents such as these, and holds personnel accountable for their actions," Capitol Police spokeswoman Eva Malecki said in a statement. "Following the investigation’s conclusion, appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the Department’s official policies and procedures."

Topics:Weapons District of Columbia the south Patrol

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