Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Capitol Police announced on Thursday that they have decided not to pursue charges after a “sex video” was recorded inside the Hart Senate Office Building. The incident occurred on the morning of Wednesday, December 13.
The decision came after a thorough investigation and consultation with federal and local prosecutors. Despite a likely violation of Congressional policy, the Capitol Police stated that there was currently no evidence of a crime being committed. The two individuals involved were uncooperative, and the elements of any potential crimes were not met.
The incident involved a Congressional staffer who had access to a closed hearing room, and the individuals of interest were not cooperative with the investigation. The staffer has since resigned from their position, exercising their Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and refusing to speak to authorities.
The video, which was leaked in a chat and shared in a private group for gay men in politics, led to the firing of a staff member for Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md. Cardin expressed his disappointment and characterized the incident as a breach of trust.
Cardin, however, did not disclose the identity of the staffer in question and referred to the issue as a “personnel matter.” Despite the scandal, it’s unclear whether the staffer faced any further disciplinary action. The incident took place in Room 216 in the Hart Senate Office Building – a room with a rich history of hosting significant events and confirmations.
The decision not to press charges by the Capitol Police has left the case closed for now, but investigators have left open the possibility of reviewing new evidence if it were to arise in the future.