The US Secret Service has gained worldwide recognition for safeguarding our political figures. Renowned for their exceptional skills and unwavering commitment, the agents of this esteemed organization are widely regarded as the most revered protectors globally. However, when it comes to securing your residence, it’s possible that their presence may not guarantee the absolute pinnacle of personal security.
Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor, benefits from the constant protection of a Secret Service detail to ensure his safety. This detail is responsible for guarding his residence, implying that it should have been virtually impossible for an intruder to gain entry unnoticed. Nevertheless, in late April, Sullivan awoke at 3 a.m. only to discover that an individual had managed to enter his house.
"The real big alarm bell is the Secret Service was not aware that a person basically walked right into his house in the middle of the night." @CarolLeonnig breaks down her new reporting about an intruder getting into National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's home last month. pic.twitter.com/2eAVjupeow
— Katy Tur Reports (@KatyOnMSNBC) May 16, 2023
Concerned about this breach, Sullivan investigated the situation and encountered an individual who appeared to be under the influence, aimlessly wandering inside. Sullivan promptly instructed the intruder to depart, which he complied with. Subsequently, Sullivan informed his Secret Service detail about the incident, only to realize that the agents had not detected the intruder’s entry or exit. As of now, the intruder remains at large.
In this particular instance, there appeared to be no immediate threat or danger. The absence of forced entry indicated that the individual, described by Sullivan as intoxicated and disoriented, was able to simply open the door and enter. The intruder did not exhibit any knowledge of or ill intentions towards Sullivan.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the National Security Advisor is a high-priority target for hostile governments. In 2021, the FBI successfully thwarted an Iranian scheme to assassinate one of Sullivan’s predecessors, John Bolton. Considering the level of threat involved, maintaining effective security measures becomes absolutely imperative.
Presently, the Secret Service has initiated an investigation to determine the factors that led to the lapse in security. Anthony Guglielmi, the spokesperson, affirms that the agency is treating the incident with utmost seriousness and has commenced a “mission assurance investigation” to thoroughly examine the matter.
Guglielmi further emphasized that if any personnel are discovered to have breached protocols, appropriate measures will be taken to hold them accountable. As a temporary measure, additional security personnel have been deployed to safeguard Sullivan’s residence. Nevertheless, it is likely that Sullivan will personally ensure the doors are securely locked moving forward.
