The United States Capitol Police (USCP) confirmed a security breach involving a man with a concealed handgun entering the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) on Tuesday, January 21, the day after President Donald Trump’s inauguration. According to a USCP statement released Thursday, the incident raised concerns about screening procedures and has led to an ongoing investigation.
Authorities reported a lookout for a man with mental health issues and suicidal tendencies, who was believed to be armed. At approximately 1:15 p.m., officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE. Further investigation revealed that the individual, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, had entered the Capitol Visitor Center and joined a public tour.
Following the tour, Faber was seen near the Library of Congress heading toward his vehicle. USCP officers stopped him at around 2:15 p.m., searched him, and discovered a concealed 9mm handgun in his waistband. Faber was arrested on multiple charges, including carrying a pistol without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and resisting arrest.
The USCP revealed that Faber gained access through the south CVC checkpoint. A magnetometer alerted officers to the presence of metal, prompting a hand search. However, the search failed to uncover the weapon, and Faber was allowed to proceed into the building. The officer responsible for the search has been suspended pending an administrative investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility.
USCP emphasized the importance of rigorous security measures and announced immediate actions to prevent future lapses. These include a full review of the incident and mandatory refresher training for officers on screening procedures.
The breach occurs against the backdrop of heightened security concerns following an assassination attempt on President Trump months earlier. While the USCP stated there is no indication Faber intended harm to Congress, the incident highlights vulnerabilities in Capitol security protocols.
