Last Updated on 2 weeks by Ashley Michael
A staffer for Senator Cory Booker was arrested Monday evening by Capitol Police for carrying a firearm without a license, authorities announced Tuesday. The staffer, identified as Kevin Batts, informed officers near the Senate galleries that he was armed.
Earlier in the day, Batts had bypassed security screening at a Senate office building while accompanying Booker. Capitol Police emphasized that all weapons are strictly prohibited on Capitol grounds, regardless of permits or prior law enforcement status.
Senators have some discretion in allowing staff and guests to bypass security, though the practice is generally discouraged. Booker, who has been leading a prolonged floor speech against President Trump’s administration and congressional Republicans, has yet to directly address the incident.
His office confirmed Batts is a retired Newark police detective who serves as a driver for the senator in New Jersey, adding that they are working to understand the full circumstances of the arrest.
MarsLink News Source: NOTUS