A Secret Service agent assigned to Vice President Kamala Harris’ security detail faces sexual assault allegations, sparking an internal investigation and raising questions about professionalism within the agency.
At a Glance
- Secret Service agent accused of groping a Harris staffer in Wisconsin
- Incident occurred during an advance team trip in Green Bay
- Agent placed on administrative leave, gun and badge confiscated
- Secret Service and VP’s office confirm zero tolerance for sexual misconduct
- Investigation underway amid broader scrutiny of Secret Service performance
Alleged Assault in Green Bay
A Secret Service agent assigned to Vice President Kamala Harris’ security detail has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of sexual misconduct. The incident reportedly occurred in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where the agent was part of an advance team preparing for a visit by the Vice President. According to sources, the agent, who was allegedly intoxicated, is accused of groping a Harris staffer in a hotel room after a dinner.
The local Secret Service field office was promptly notified of the assault, leading to swift action. The accused agent has been removed from Harris’ detail, and their gun and badge were confiscated pending the outcome of the investigation. This incident has raised serious concerns about the conduct and professionalism of those entrusted with protecting our nation’s leaders.
#BREAKING: The Secret Service is investigating claims one of its agents sexually assaulted a Kamala Harris staff member, according to bombshell new reportshttps://t.co/i9MmUDWmaz pic.twitter.com/eqWdosih14
— The US Sun (@TheSunUS) September 25, 2024
Official Responses and Investigation
Both the Secret Service and Vice President Harris’ office have issued statements confirming the incident and emphasizing their commitment to staff safety and zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. The U.S. Secret Service Office of Professional Responsibility has initiated an investigation into the matter.
“The U.S. Secret Service Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating a misconduct allegation involving an employee,” an agency spokesperson said. “The Secret Service holds its personnel to the highest standards.”
The Vice President’s office also released a statement, underscoring their stance on the matter: “The Office of the Vice President takes the safety of staff seriously. We have zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. Senior OVP officials were alerted by the USSS about an incident involving an agent and informed that USSS initiated an investigation.”
Broader Implications for the Secret Service
This incident comes at a time when the Secret Service is already under intense scrutiny for recent security lapses. The agency has faced criticism for its handling of two failed assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump, including a July 13 incident at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump was reportedly shot in the ear by an assassin.
“The Senate report found a number of “foreseeable, preventable” failures that day, some of which “remain unaddressed.” The Secret Service has taken “full responsibility” for that security breach.”
A bipartisan Senate report highlighted repeated failures of leadership and communication during the Trump rally incident. The report criticized the Secret Service for unclear roles, lack of accountability, and poor coordination with local law enforcement. These ongoing issues have led to calls for fundamental reform and new leadership within the agency.
As the investigation into the alleged sexual assault continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the need for rigorous internal checks and accountability mechanisms within federal protective services. The incident not only affects the individuals involved but also raises questions about the overall culture and standards within the Secret Service, an agency tasked with safeguarding the nation’s highest-ranking officials.
