A man jumped a security barrier at the White House and dropped a backpack on the grounds before being captured by Secret Service officers.

Secret Service officials say the man has been charged with unlawful entry.

The incident led to a lockdown at the White House. Authorities investigated the backpack and declared it safe.

According to the Secret Service, the unidentified man jumped the barrier on the south side of the White House complex between the Ellipse and E Street.

He dropped the backpack and was promptly taken into custody by officers.

The White House north fence line, E Street and 17th Street from D Street to New York Avenue were closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic during the investigation.

(AP)