Several members of the U.S. Secret Service have been placed on leave following July’s assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. According to ABC News, this involves at least five Secret Service officials who were involved in the planning of protection of Trump that day.
Sources said that the internal investigation is expanding to focus on several critical areas, including the Secret Service’s response to a classified threat against Trump.
In a statement, the Secret Service reiterated its commitment to accountability. Officials are “examining the process and procedures and factors that led to this operational failure.”
The Secret Service isn’t the only agency under the microscope. Lawmakers are determined to figure out how a 20-year-old gunman gained such close proximity to the former president.
CNN reported that those Secret Service officials placed on leave have been reassigned to work from home while the internal investigation continues. It’s not yet clear if their removal is disciplinary, but the agency’s investigation is ongoing. The Secret Service is also conducting a broader “mission assurance review,” which includes reassessing security protocols for future events.
Trump recently resumed his outdoor rallies, with significantly ramped-up security measures. Along with more personnel, his podium is now surrounded by bulletproof glass.
