Washington, DC - Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, testified alongside Colonel Christopher L. Paris, the Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, before the House Committee on Homeland Security at a hearing entitled "Examining the Assassination Attempt of July 13."
The hearing examined the July 13th assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, the perspectives and roles of State and local law enforcement in securing the site, what factors led to the shooting, and the lessons that can be learned from this event.
“I want to thank the committee for holding this hearing to learn more about the vital role that State and local law enforcement plays in the security of Secret Service protectees,” Yoes said. “Working events like a rally featuring a former President or major presidential candidate requires a robust and coordinated security effort among Federal, State, and local agencies. The U.S. Secret Service is tasked with leading these efforts, but the success of these operations relies heavily on the seamless integration and cooperation of local law enforcement agencies. This partnership is founded on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to protecting our nation and its leaders.”
“All of this said, there was a critical failure of security at the event in Butler. An armed man was able to access an ideal shooting perch with a clear line of sight of the protectee—former President Trump,” said Yoes. “The would-be assassin killed one man, seriously injured two others, and very nearly assassinated the former President. It is important that we learn how and why this security failure occurred to ensure that future events better provide for the safety and security of our leaders and the public attending these events.”
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Director of the Secret Service, Kimberly A. Cheatle, resigned, and there are currently multiple ongoing investigations.