During a recent congressional hearing, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle faced questioning from Ranking member Jamie Raskin regarding an incident involving former President Donald Trump. Cheatle explained that despite law enforcement being warned about a 'suspicious' person in the crowd on July 13, Trump was allowed to take the stage.
Cheatle clarified that the Secret Service distinguishes between someone acting suspiciously and an actual threat. She emphasized that if the detail had received information indicating a credible threat, they would not have exposed the former president to any danger.
According to Cheatle, it is standard protocol for the Secret Service to thoroughly investigate individuals flagged as suspicious during protective events. This process is crucial in determining whether these individuals pose a genuine threat.
She reiterated the agency's commitment to ensuring the safety of protected individuals at all times. Cheatle emphasized that the Secret Service's primary objective is to assess and neutralize potential threats before they escalate into dangerous situations.
Overall, Cheatle's testimony shed light on the meticulous security measures employed by the Secret Service to safeguard high-profile figures during public appearances. The agency's proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential threats underscores its dedication to maintaining the security and well-being of those under its protection.
