Capitol Police Advise Members, Staff to Take Precautions

Following the tragic shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and staff members in Tucson, Arizona today, the U.S. Capitol Police are advising members of Congress to take safety precautions.

The Capitol police also announced they are involved in the investigation into the shooting. A statement from the Capitol Police was emailed to all House staff:

From: US Capitol Police [[e-mail]]
Sent: Saturday, January 08, 2011 3:16 PM
To: All House Staff
Subject: Message from the U.S. Capitol Police

Federal, state and local law enforcement authorities in Arizona are investigating a shooting in Tucson, Arizona in which Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot. Multiple others were shot as well. Congresswoman Giffords has been transported to a local medical facility with serious injuries. The suspect is in custody. No further details on the motive or other victims are available at this time.

The U.S. Capitol Police are directly involved in this investigation. As more information is developed, it will be provided. In the interim, all Members and staff are advised to take reasonable and prudent precautions regarding their personal security.

The Capitol Police met with lawmakers in March of 2010, following a wave of threats and intimidation against lawmakers, one of the most alarming instances of which involved Giffords's Tuscon office. On the night of the health care vote, Giffords's office window was smashed.

After other offices received threats, Democratic Capitol Police met with lawmakers at the request of Democratic leaders, to advise them on safety.