A concerning security incident unfolded at the U.S. Capitol complex when an armed individual managed to enter the premises despite triggering security measures.
According to the New York Post, James Faber, 27, from Massachusetts, was arrested outside the Library of Congress after successfully passing through security with a concealed 9mm handgun, despite setting off magnetometers and undergoing a physical search.
The incident occurred Tuesday, just one day after the presidential inauguration, raising serious questions about Capitol security protocols. Capitol Police apprehended Faber following reports about an individual experiencing mental health issues and expressing suicidal thoughts. The suspect had managed to complete a tour of the Capitol before his arrest.
The security breach has prompted swift administrative responses from Capitol authorities. The officer responsible for conducting the initial hand search has been suspended pending a thorough investigation. Capitol Police leadership has ordered mandatory refresher training on security screening procedures for all personnel.
Capitol Police issued an official statement addressing the incident:
Thankfully nobody was hurt. The USCP 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.
The security lapse occurred despite heightened security measures implemented for the inauguration period. Officials are particularly concerned about how Faber managed to bypass multiple security checkpoints while armed.
Before the Capitol incident, law enforcement had already been alerted to potential concerns about Faber. The Secret Service and Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police had interviewed him at a hotel regarding social media posts. During this initial contact, they conducted a search but found no weapons.
The timeline of events reveals that Faber entered the Capitol complex through the south checkpoint around 1:15 pm ET. He proceeded to take a tour of the facility while Capitol Police had already issued an internal lookout notice for him.
The case has taken an unexpected turn with the revelation of another individual sharing the same name. In July, 51-year-old James A. Faber from Chicago was arrested in Illinois for possessing loaded firearms and impersonating a peace officer during the Republican National Convention.
The U.S. Attorney's Office has launched an investigation into the incident. Faber faces multiple charges, including carrying a pistol without a license, resisting arrest, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Law enforcement officials are examining how the suspect managed to conceal the weapon despite the magnetometer alert and subsequent physical search. The incident has prompted a comprehensive review of visitor screening protocols at all Capitol entry points.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in balancing public access to government buildings with maintaining strict security measures. Security experts are expected to provide recommendations for preventing similar breaches in the future.
James Faber's arrest outside the Library of Congress has exposed significant vulnerabilities in the Capitol's security screening procedures. The Massachusetts resident managed to enter the Capitol complex with a concealed weapon despite triggering security alerts and undergoing a physical search. The U.S. Attorney's Office is now investigating the incident while Capitol Police implement immediate measures to prevent future security breaches, including mandatory retraining for security personnel and a comprehensive review of screening protocols.
