The Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General has launched an investigation into the Secret Service’s handling of security during the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024. This probe aims to evaluate the Secret Service’s process for securing the event, where 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks was able to open fire from a nearby rooftop, injuring Trump and killing one spectator.The incident has sparked multiple investigations and raised serious questions about security protocols. In addition to the DHS Inspector General’s investigation, President Joe Biden has ordered an independent review, and the FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism. The House of Representatives is also planning to establish a bipartisan commission with subpoena powers to investigate the incident, as announced by Speaker Mike Johnson.Criticism of the Secret Service has intensified, with some calling for the resignation of Director Kim Cheatle. Conservative pundit Dan Bongino, a former Secret Service officer, claimed that a local police counter-sniper post failed to show up at the rally. However, Butler County Prosecutor Ronald Goldinger stated that local law enforcement was not assigned to the area outside the rally, emphasizing that the responsibility lies with the Secret Service.The FBI has gained access to Crooks’ cellphone and electronic devices but has yet to determine a motive for the attack. Investigations have revealed that Crooks had donated to a liberal political action committee and later registered to vote as a Republican, adding complexity to the search for a motive.As investigations continue, the incident has reignited debates about political violence and the challenges of protecting high-profile individuals. The House Judiciary Committee has scheduled a hearing for July 24 to investigate the FBI’s handling of the case, while the Secret Service, FBI, and Department of Justice are expected to present their latest findings to Congress.
Key points
- The DHS Inspector General has launched an investigation into the Secret Service’s handling of security during the Trump assassination attempt.
- Multiple investigations are underway, including an FBI probe, a congressional commission, and an independent review ordered by President Biden.
- The incident has raised questions about security protocols and the effectiveness of the Secret Service.
- The motive behind the attack remains unclear, despite ongoing investigations.
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about the responsibility for security outside the rally venue, with Dan Bongino claiming a local police counter-sniper post failed to show up, while Butler County Prosecutor Ronald Goldinger stated that local law enforcement was not assigned to the area.
