As Congress convenes a bipartisan task force to investigate the security failures that led to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, its mere existence should serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant and proactive security measures.

Many elements contributed to the breach, so many issues need to be addressed. Effective planning is the cornerstone of security and emergency preparedness. Venues need a thorough risk assessment, clear role definitions, and appropriate resource allocation.

Tragically, the Trump rally in Pennsylvania exposed the inexcusable lack of surveillance from a nearby water tower and the rooftop where a gunman shot Trump and Corey Comperatore. The claim that a sloped roof is unsafe for law enforcement is absurd. The gunman used this rooftop to get into a stable firing position. The gunman did not fall down after firing, suggesting that the rooftop is suitable for surveillance purposes.

The Secret Service’s inability to secure this critical location is puzzling and raises significant concerns about risk assessment protocols.

Any excuse about heat, roof pitch, inadequate staffing, etc. points to a fundamental failure in preparation. Security officers and agents need to be well hydrated, rested from extreme temperatures, and adequately staffed.

The shooter used a rangefinder to measure the distance to a target, revealing a glaring flaw in security screening processes. This type of equipment, often used as binoculars, must be identified and tagged in future incidents. In addition, overly strict rules of engagement delayed response until after the first shot. Strict rules of engagement are necessary, but should never hinder agents’ ability to act promptly in high-threat situations.

Effective security depends on proper leadership and coordination. Unfortunately, centralized command delayed an immediate response from personnel on the ground. Tips from protesters allowed police officers to identify the shooter earlier in the day. However, they had no instructions or were specifically told to stand down, leading to their inaction. The problem was further exacerbated by the bystander effect, where individuals are less likely to intervene because they assume someone else will. This highlights critical problems within a centralized command structure: delays and inefficiencies proved fatal.

Decentralized leadership puts decision-making power in the hands of those on the ground who can respond more quickly and effectively. FEMA recommends having no more than five direct reports per supervisor to maintain a manageable area of ​​control and ensure decisions are made in a timely and efficient manner. This may have avoided the delays that led to Comperatore’s death.

In military operations, decentralized command is often preferred because it allows small units to adapt quickly, exploit vulnerabilities, and adjust defensive positions as needed. This flexibility is critical in security-critical situations.

After witnessing several events with a Secret Service presence from 2018 to 2020, our team members noticed a few things about the Secret Service’s standard procedures that stood out. They used similar ID and screening processes and technology as the TSA at airports, such as a handheld metal detector that checks backpacks, bags, and purses. Even water bottles branded with the venue’s logo were not allowed to be left unattended. Agents demonstrated strong teamwork while working with multiple law enforcement agencies simultaneously. The deterioration in quality highlights the need for improved leadership and support systems.

The gaps in preparation, leadership and coordination at the Trump rally revealed significant security deficiencies. However, assigning blame alone will not solve the problems that allowed the gunman to fire. To prevent such incidents, adequate preparation, decentralized leadership and support for security personnel are essential. Also crucial is the demand for transparency to encourage greater shared accountability among security forces, law enforcement and intelligence officials for successes and failures.

When security breaks down, the human cost is enormous. Accountability and adherence to best practices are necessary to ensure the safety and survival of high-ranking individuals and the public. Immediate reforms would save people like Corey Comperatore, whose memory Congress and the Secret Service can honor by fixing these problems and working toward a safer future for all Americans.

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