Kimberly Cheatle, director of the Secret Service, addressed concerns regarding the security failures that led to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. In an interview, Cheatle took responsibility, stating that the 'buck stops with me' when questioned about accountability.
One of the key issues raised was how the shooter managed to access a rooftop overlooking the stage where the former president was present, without law enforcement presence. Cheatle explained that the shooter had been flagged as a potential threat, prompting units to respond. However, due to the rapid unfolding of events, by the time the individual was located, they had already positioned themselves on the rooftop and fired at Trump.
When asked about the security of the rooftop, Cheatle mentioned that the particular building had a sloped roof at its highest point, posing a safety concern for agents. She emphasized that the decision to secure the building from the inside was made considering this safety factor.
Cheatle's responses shed light on the challenges faced by the Secret Service in ensuring the safety of high-profile individuals in dynamic situations. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in protecting public figures and the constant need for vigilance and adaptability in security protocols.