Congressional intern arrested trying to enter Capitol Hill building with handgun

A congressional intern was arrested Monday morning for allegedly trying to bring a handgun into a Capitol Hill office building, police and multiple sources told Fox News.

The incident occurred at about 9 a.m. EST as the intern allegedly tried to enter the Longworth House Office Building with an unloaded Smith & Wesson 9-mm. handgun, according to U.S. Capitol Police.

Police officials have identified the suspect as Joshua Wheeler, 25, of Atchison, Kansas.

Wheeler is an intern for Kansas Republican Rep. Lynn Jenkins, vice chairwoman of the House Republican Conference.

The handgun was discovered during the routine search required to enter all congressional office buildings.

Wheeler purportedly tried to enter the Longworth building at the New Jersey & C Street SE entrance.

He is charged with carrying a pistol without a license and with having an unregistered firearm.

Jenkins spokesman Tom Brandt said the congresswoman's office believes Wheeler accidentally brought the gun to the entrance and is fully cooperating with police.

However, Jenkins made clear that Wheeler "used poor judgement" and that he was immediately placed on temporary leave.

Fox News' Chad Pergram contributed to this report.