Staff Reports
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle recently revealed in an interview with ABC News that a decision was made to have local law enforcement officers inside the building where the gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, positioned himself to shoot former President Donald Trump. The reasoning given was the safety concern of having someone on a sloped roof, as the building’s highest point had such characteristics. This decision to secure the building from within sheds light on why law enforcement officers were not on the rooftop, despite it being a usual staging and lookout area for them during events where they assist the Secret Service.
While it is common for local law enforcement to support the Secret Service during events like campaign rallies, ultimately, the security plan falls under the Secret Service’s jurisdiction. Cheatle’s explanation comes under scrutiny as calls for her resignation increase following the incident where the 20-year-old gunman was able to shoot at Trump from a dangerously close distance.
Reports indicated that law enforcement had earlier noticed Crooks on the rooftop and on the ground, considering him a suspicious person. However, it remains unclear who they communicated this information to. Despite rally attendees also alerting law enforcement about Crooks, the sequence of events transpired rapidly, ultimately leading to the assailant being able to carry out the shooting on the former president from the rooftop.
A little RV drawer liner and a mattress topper, no problem!. Maybe some
Marine, SEAL, or Green Berret, vets?Cheatle: Police Snipers Were Not Put on Roof Where Trump Gunman Was Because It Was ‘Sloped’ https://t.co/FBdPOWBGpb
— Scout8004by (@scout8004by1) July 16, 2024
In light of the failed attempt on Trump’s life, President Joe Biden has raised questions about the Secret Service’s preparedness and prevention measures. The incident has sparked debate over whether the Secret Service should have anticipated and averted the assassination attempt. Cheatle has taken responsibility for the security lapse but has expressed her intent to remain in her position despite mounting pressure for her resignation.
