Bachmann aide arrested on theft charges

Javier Sanchez was charged in connection with several burglaries in a House office building in D.C.

Published July 16, 2013 1:12PM (EDT)

Javier Sanchez, a legislative aide to Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., was arrested in connection with a series of burglaries in the Rayburn House Office Building at the Capitol.

According to NBC News, Capitol police arrested Sanchez after conducting a sting operation in the offices, following two reports of theft in February and March of this year. From NBC News:

Capitol Police placed a hidden camera in Room 2417 April 4 and placed two envelopes, one with $80 marked "Petty Cash" on one desk, and another marked "Birthday Money" with $120 on another desk. The money from both envelopes was reported missing June 25.

Surveillance video captured a man entering the office just after 6:30 p.m. June 14. The video shows the man opening the chief of staff's drawer, removing an envelope, counting money and taking the cash and envelope with him, the charging documents state.

Sanchez, who was charged with second-degree theft, denied taking the money, according to an affidavit. "I may have taken a quarter once and a while, but I would pay it back," he said.

A spokesman for Michele Bachmann said in a statement that "as of 7/12/2013, the person in question is no longer with the office. Any further questions should be directed to Capitol Police."


By Jillian Rayfield

Jillian Rayfield is an Assistant News Editor for Salon, focusing on politics. Follow her on Twitter at @jillrayfield or email her at jrayfield@salon.com.

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