Reassignments and Disciplinary Action Follow Security Failures at Trump Rally

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16330091/original/open-uri20240823-18-14knyen?1724435414
ICARO Media Group
Politics
23/08/2024 17h48

Multiple Secret Service personnel from the Pittsburgh Field Office and a member of Donald Trump's security detail have been reassigned to administrative duties and ordered to work from home, according to a source familiar with the matter. The move comes as the Secret Service faces criticism for the security failures at a July 13 rally, during which a gunman fired eight rounds, injuring Trump and resulting in the death of a rallygoer in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Lawmakers have been pressuring the Secret Service to take action against those involved in the preparation for the rally. Acting Deputy Director Ronald Rowe had previously indicated that any disciplinary measures would be reserved until after the completion of the investigation into the incident. In response to the mounting pressure, personnel have now been reassigned pending the outcome of multiple inquiries, including an internal review, congressional investigations, and an independent commission appointed by the Department of Homeland Security.

Speaking at a news conference earlier this month, Acting Deputy Director Rowe acknowledged the agency's responsibility in the incident, stating unequivocally, "This was a Secret Service failure." Previously, the agency had pointed blame at local security forces for their alleged failure to monitor the assailant. Rowe lamented the lack of appropriate security measures, emphasizing that the roof should have been covered.

In a statement released on Friday, Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service, highlighted the agency's commitment to investigating and reviewing the decisions and actions surrounding the event in Butler. The Secret Service's mission assurance review is ongoing, with a focus on evaluating the operational failure and identifying processes, procedures, and factors that contributed to it.

Guglielmi further emphasized the agency's dedication to upholding the highest professional standards, stating that any violations of policy will be thoroughly investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility, potentially leading to disciplinary action. However, due to the sensitivity of the matter being a personnel issue, no further comments were provided.

The Secret Service's handling of the security breach during the Trump rally has raised concerns regarding the protection of high-profile individuals and the effectiveness of security protocols. As investigations continue, lawmakers and the public will be closely watching for accountability and measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related