Each Day New Facts: Pennsylvania Police Commissioner Reveals Insights in Trump Assassination Hearing

The second day of congressional hearings delving into the US Secret Service's handling of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump commenced on Tuesday, July 23 amidst continued scrutiny and intense bipartisan questioning. U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned in response to intense criticism over her agency’s handling of security. 

Yesterday, Cheatle, now the former Director of the Secret Service, faced a barrage of inquiries from lawmakers across party lines, with some calling for her resignation over alleged lapses in security protocols that allowed the assassination attempt to occur. 

Colonel Christopher L. Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), provided crucial testimony today, outlining PSP's role during the Trump rally where the attempt took place. “Each day I learn new facts,” he said. 

"The Trump assassination attempt has deeply impacted the Butler community, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and our nation," Paris stated solemnly.

"Our role during the former US President Trump’s rally was to support the Secret Service with personnel and assets as requested," Paris continued. "Our operational plan, involving 32 members, focused on motorcade operations and security posts at the Butler County Farm Show. 

Additionally, we deployed troopers and marked cars outside the perimeter to handle incidents during the event."

Paris revealed that PSP is currently conducting a criminal investigation in collaboration with the FBI to determine any criminal culpability under Pennsylvania state law related to the assassination attempt. "We are also investigating the actions of the US Secret Service counter-sniper who neutralized the threat posed by Crooks after he opened fire," Paris added.