Bodycam footage from the Butler Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department recently obtained by Fox News Digital revealed the heroic efforts of a single officer in the aftermath of the Trump assassination attempt on July 13. The footage shows the officer urgently requesting assistance, stating, “This is way above my pay grade. Whoever you have coming, I need an empire.” This plea for help underscores the chaotic and high-pressure situation faced by law enforcement following the shooting by gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks from the roof of the American Glass Research (AGR) building.
The footage also captured the confusion among officers from various agencies regarding the lack of law enforcement presence on the AGR roof and how Crooks was able to go unnoticed. Despite reports of a suspicious individual on the roof, officers were initially unable to locate Crooks until one officer was boosted up to the edge of the roof, where he saw Crooks pointing his rifle at him before falling to the ground.
The township manager, Thomas Knights, explained that the officer had to physically pull himself up to get a better view of Crooks on the roof, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to the unfolding situation. The officer’s fall from the roof resulted in a sprained ankle, underscoring the risks and dangers faced by those on the front lines.
In additional footage released, a police officer can be heard expressing frustration with the Secret Service for not having officers stationed on the roof as previously requested. This revelation raises questions about the coordination and communication between local law enforcement and federal agencies during high-profile events.
The Secret Service responded to the footage by acknowledging the failure on their part and committing to a review and update of their protective policies and procedures to prevent a similar tragedy from occurring in the future. This statement highlights the importance of collaboration and coordination among all levels of law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of public figures and events.
Overall, the bodycam footage provides a firsthand look at the challenges and complexities faced by law enforcement in responding to a high-stakes situation like the Trump assassination attempt. It serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others and the need for continuous improvement and coordination in law enforcement efforts.
