US Capitol Police closing investigation into sex video from Senate hearing room

The U.S. Capitol Police is closing its probe into a sex video that circulated in December of a now-former staffer performing lewd acts in a Senate committee room, police announced Thursday, and no charges will be filed.

While the incident was “likely a violation of Congressional policy,” Capitol Police’s “comprehensive investigation” determined there is no evidence a crime was committed, police said in a statement Thursday.  Police consulted with federal and local officials and reviewed possible charges before reaching this conclusion, the statement added. 

It comes more than a month after a video, first reported by the Daily Caller, spread in December on social media, in which two people were shown having sex in Hart 216. The room is known for hosting Senate Judiciary Committee business and several historical moments, including the 9/11 Commission and Supreme Court nomination hearings. 

The staffer, who resigned shortly after the video circulated, was employed with Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.). The Senate Democrat at the time said he was “angry” with the video, calling it a “breach of trust.” 

“I was angry, disappointed. It’s a breach of trust. All of the above. It’s a tragic situation, and it’s presented a lot of anger and frustration,” Cardin said in December. 

A spokesperson for Cardin’s office said Thursday the senator “thanks the Capitol Police for their service.”

Capitol Police said the two people of interest “were not cooperative,” and the staffer exercised his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and “refused” to talk with authorities. 

Police said investigators are “willing” to review new evidence that may come to light in the future.

–Updated at 12:17 p.m.