An agency insider has come forward with information that the Secret Service's failure to conduct a proper threat assessment at a Trump rally site in Pennsylvania contributed to a near-assassination attempt on the former president.

The whistleblower's revelations have prompted significant scrutiny of the Secret Service's operational protocols and decisions before and during the event that left one dead, as the Daily  Wire reports.

Security Failures Exposed by Whistleblower

The whistleblower informed Republican Sen. Josh Hawley that the Secret Service did not perform their usual evaluation at the Trump rally site in Pennsylvania. Specifically, the Secret Service Counter Surveillance Division (CSD) was not present and failed to conduct a threat assessment on the day of the rally.

During the event, Trump suffered an injury when he was struck in the ear, two attendees were seriously hurt, and a man named Corey Comperatore, aged 50, was killed. The whistleblower asserted that assessing potential threats and mitigating them is part of CSD's primary duties.

Implications of CSD Absence at Rally

Hawley emphasized the significance of CSD's responsibilities. "This is significant because CSD’s duties include evaluating potential security threats outside the security perimeter and mitigating those threats during the event," he stated. The whistleblower claimed that the presence of CSD personnel could have led to the apprehension of the gunman with the help of a rangefinder.

The event has sparked questions about the extent to which protocol adherence plays a part in ensuring the protection of high-profile individuals. Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe later admitted the American Glass Research complex should have been included in the security perimeter for the event. He stated, "The Secret Service takes full responsibility for the tragic events of July 13th."

Personnel Cuts and Security Oversight

Further revelations noted that Rowe directed cuts to CSD, reducing manpower by up to 20%. These cuts reportedly hampered the division's ability to effectively perform its tasks at critical events.

The issues do not end with the events in Pennsylvania. Another accusation by the whistleblower involved agents who faced retaliation for raising concerns over local law enforcement's role in securing a golf tournament Trump attended last August.

This suggests potential systemic issues within the agency relating to the handling of security protocols and staff complaints.

Multiple Factors Contributed to Security Breach

Hawley had previously disclosed that 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted the recent assassination, fired from a rooftop that was left unattended by law enforcement due to high temperatures. This detail highlights an additional aspect of the security lapses during the event.

On Friday, Rowe acknowledged the substantial failures in security that occurred at the Trump rally. "This was a mission failure. The sole responsibility of our agency is to make sure our protectors are never put in danger," he said.

Responsibility and Accountability

The whistleblower’s claims have raised significant concerns regarding the operational integrity of the Secret Service. The lack of a proper threat assessment, combined with reduced CSD manpower, and the decision not to staff the rooftop, were critical factors in the failure to prevent the attack.

The agency faces scrutiny over why established protocols were not followed and how these gaps in security occurred. The statements by Rowe and Hawley stress the importance of these assessments in protecting public figures and preventing catastrophic incidents.

Future of Secret Service Protocols

As this story unfolds, there are calls for a comprehensive review of the Secret Service’s methods and procedures. Ensuring such oversights do not happen in future events is critical for the safety of protected individuals.

This incident has brought to light the potential risks of reducing critical manpower and ignoring standard security protocols. It also underlines the consequences faced when the intricate balance of security measures is disrupted.

Conclusion: Addressing Security Lapses

The whistleblower's revelation about the Secret Service's failure to adequately secure a Trump rally site in Pennsylvania has led to intense scrutiny. This includes the absence of a threat assessment by the Counter Surveillance Division, the injury of Donald Trump and others, and the death of Corey Comperatore.

Acting Director Ronald Rowe admitted to the agency's failures and took full responsibility. Allegations of retaliation against agents who raised security concerns highlight deeper issues within the Service.

A detailed review of protocols and adherence is essential to prevent future breaches and safeguard those under the Secret Service’s protection.