Criticism focused on the fact that the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was able to take up a position on the roof of a building placed within the “outer perimeter” of the device, under the responsibility of the local police.
Published on 17/10/2024 23:10
Reading time: 1min
The Secret Service, responsible for protecting senior American political figures, “must reform in depth” to avoid the repetition of fiascos like the failed assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13, affirmed an independent commission of inquiry on Thursday October 17. In their report, the four members of this commission recommend in particular a change in direction of the Secret Service, with the appointment at its head of officials from outside, and that it now concentrates on its crucial mission of protection, leaving to abandon others.
This report addressed to the Minister of Internal Security Alejandro Mayorkas, supervisory authority of the Secret Service, not only points out the “many errors” committed during the Republican candidate’s meeting in Butler, Pennsylvania (north-east) on July 13, but also “deeper, systemic problems that need to be addressed urgently”.
Criticism has focused on the fact that the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was able to take up a position on the roof of a building placed in the “outer perimeter” of the device, under the responsibility of the local police, and opened fire, before being shot down by the Secret Service. The interim head of the Secret Service has been held by Ronald Rowe since the resignation on July 23 of the current director, Kimberly Cheatle, ten days after Butler’s failure.
