The recent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania has raised serious questions about the security measures in place that day. According to a lawmaker who spoke to Fox News Digital on the condition of anonymity, Congress was denied access to the Ops Report detailing the protection plan for the event.
Paul Mauro, an attorney and retired NYPD inspector, expressed concern over the lack of a detailed plan that should have covered the area where the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired from. Mauro emphasized the importance of proper planning and coordination in such high-security events.
Despite several reported sightings of Crooks before the shooting, he was able to open fire on the crowd, injuring Trump and killing beloved former fire chief Corey Comperatore. Mauro criticized the lack of a clear incident commander and evacuation plan, highlighting the potential for a more serious outcome.
As lawmakers are now being blocked from accessing the report and the Secret Service is pointing fingers at local police, Mauro believes there is a need for oversight and accountability in the investigation. The House Oversight Committee is set to question Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, with Rep. James Comer leading the charge.
The Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General has also launched a review of the Secret Service’s preparedness and operations during the event. The investigation aims to determine the extent to which the Counter Sniper Team is equipped to handle threats at events attended by designated protectees.
The incident has sparked a debate over the security protocols in place for high-profile events, with calls for transparency and accountability in the aftermath of the attempted assassination.
