A Secret Service investigation found that agents guarding the home of a senior Biden official did not notice any intruders on the property because they were on the phone, according to a report.
The internal investigation determined that officers were distracted by their personal phones when a person entered and then exited National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s home in late April, sources familiar with the matter told CNN. investigation.
Mr. Sullivan met the person at his home and got him out without incident. He told investigators he believed the intruder was drunk and entered Mr Sullivan’s home by mistake.
The network reported that officers and supervisors on duty that night could have their security clearances assessed.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle recently announced 21-day suspensions for people who use their phones during their shifts.
“We have zero tolerance for anything that compromises operational success,” agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement to CNN. “While human error can occur, what sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to maintaining very high professional and ethical standards. This includes increased penalties for incidents involving alcohol and a strict policy regarding personal cell phone use while on duty.