The Secret Service, responsible for protecting senior American political figures, “must reform itself in depth” to avoid a repeat of fiascos like the failed assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13, a commission said Thursday. independent investigation.
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In a 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 Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, supervisory authority of the Secret Service, points out not only the “numerous errors” committed during the Republican candidate’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania (north-east) on July 13, but also “ deeper, systemic problems that must be addressed urgently.
“The Secret Service needs fundamental reform to accomplish its mission. Without this reform, the independent commission believes that another Butler can and will occur again,” they write at the start of this 35-page document, excluding annexes.
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.
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 in the “outer perimeter” of the device, under the responsibility of the local police, and open fire before being shot down by the Secret Service.
Images of Donald Trump, blood streaming down his face and his fist raised, went around the world.
