Secret Service Accuses Local Pennsylvania Police for Security Lapses Around Trump’s Rally in Butler
The United States Secret Service blames local police for failing to secure the surrounding properties of ex-President Donald Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July, 14, 2024. The grounds where the failed attempted assassination took place was supposed to be under local police jurisdiction, not the Secret Service, a representative of the agency stated. Critics are now calling for a probe into possible lapses on the part of the Secret Service.
Failed Assassination Attempt in Pennsylvania
The unfolding event revolves around an assassination attempt by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks who allegedly opened fire from the rooftop of AGR International Inc., a factory approximately 130 yards from the stage, during Trump’s rally. Within moments, catastrophe struck, with Donald Trump suffering a gunshot wound to his ear, one bystander falling fatal victim to the bullets, and two others severely injured.
Security Lapses and Assignments
The Secret Service insists that the area from which Crooks shot was outside their specified perimeter of protection. According to the agency, the grounds of AGR International Inc. were expected to be secured by local Pennsylvania police forces. This neglect raises serious concerns about security lapses preceding the event, with complaints emanating from nearby residents who claimed they were not contacted by any law enforcement agencies— local or federal—before or during the event.
The division of duties at the event saw the Secret Service tasked with providing security at the rally grounds while local police were responsible for securing the surrounding area. It was reported that local sniper teams supported the Secret Service’s two sniper teams and six officers from Butler County’s tactical units filled the Secret Service’s counter assault team.
The ongoing investigation reveals several apparent lapses by the Pennsylvania police in attempting to locate Crooks after receiving warnings about a suspicious person sighted near the rally’s metal detectors. According to reports, Crooks was seen with a rifle outside the rally’s security checkpoint and later spotted moving from one roof to another.
Investigation and Reaction
There are calls for a serious investigation into the Secret Service’s operations, led by House Oversight Committee Chairman Hames Comer. In the aftermath of the incident, both state and federal agencies are inevitably facing scrutiny for their roles during the event. Pennsylvania police have noted that while they regularly assist when high-profile government officials are in town, the Secret Service is the primary enforcing agency in charge of event security.
As the looming investigation continues, revelations regarding the events leading up to and during the attempted assassination will eventually come to light.
