The Police United States A man was arrested this Wednesday for trying to bring a machete and knives into the Capitol visitor centerwhere the funeral chapel of former US President Jimmy Carter (1977-1981) lies and hours before the president-elect, Donald Trump, went to the building.
The events took place shortly after 2:00 p.m. (local time, 8:00 p.m. Spanish peninsular time), when the agents detected in the X-ray machine at the security control at the north door of the building a machete and three knives in the man’s bag, according to a statement. The suspect, Mel J. Horne, 44, of Washington, has been arrested on multiple charges of carrying a dangerous weapon. Investigators will question Horne to determine the reason for coming with the machete.
“Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for even a second. It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe,” said Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger. Security screening has been temporarily halted at this location while the investigation continues. However, security forces have stressed that “there is no ongoing threat against Congress, the Capitol or the public.” Therefore, visits to Carter’s memorial service will continue throughout the night.
The remains of Carter, who died on December 29 at the age of 100, will remain in the building until his state funeral, scheduled for Thursday. However, authorities have deployed a large security contingent ahead of Trump’s inauguration, which will take place on January 20.
