As the Capitol Hill community digests news of a foiled ISIS-inspired plot to bomb and shoot the complex, law enforcement officials are reminding congressional offices the Capitol is a top target for terrorists.  

“Most of you have seen media reports about yesterday’s arrest of a man in Ohio who allegedly was planning an attack at the U.S. Capitol,” stated House Sergeant-at-Arms Paul D. Irving in noon alert to Capitol employees and staff that was obtained by CQ Roll Call. Irving states that the public, and in particular the congressional community, “was never in danger during the investigation.” “With this arrest, we are again reminded that the United States, and especially the Capitol complex, remains a potential target for terrorists—be they organized attacks or so-called ‘lone wolf’ assaults,” Irving continued. “Therefore, it is essential that every member of the House community maintain vigilance and security awareness at all times.”  

According to the Sergeant-at-Arms, Capitol Police continue to coordinate with the FBI, and law enforcement officials are monitoring the situation. On Wednesday, federal prosecutors filed a criminal complaint in Ohio court against Christopher Lee Cornell, 20, who was allegedly plotting to travel to D.C. and detonate pipe bombs at and near the Capitol, then shoot employees and officials.  

Matt Fuller contributed to this report.
Related:

FBI: Ohio Man Planned to Detonate Bombs at Capitol


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