Congressional Panel Demands Transparency, Subpoenas Key ATF Agents in Effort to Uncover Crucial Evidence
ATF Faces Allegations of Noncompliance
The congressional task force investigating the July and September assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump has accused the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) of obstructing its efforts. Task force leaders assert that the ATF has delayed providing documents and denied access to crucial personnel. Subpoenas were issued Monday to compel testimony from key ATF agents involved in the investigations.
Task Force Chairman Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., and Ranking Member Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., highlighted ATF’s lack of cooperation. They stated that previous requests for documents and interviews, sent in October and November, had been ignored. Despite repeated follow-ups, the agency’s initial response arrived late and consisted of only a few summary pages.
July Attack in Butler: Key Questions Remain
The July 13 assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, remains central to the task force’s inquiry. During a campaign rally, Matthew Crooks opened fire with an AR-15, injuring three and killing one rally attendee, Corey Comperatore. Trump narrowly escaped a fatal injury but was grazed by a bullet.
The task force seeks documents detailing ATF’s critical incident response, including the discovery of an improvised explosive device at Crooks’ home and the search for his vehicle. Investigators are also examining Crooks’ motives and his use of encrypted accounts on foreign platforms.
September Attempt Raises Additional Concerns
The task force is also probing a September incident involving suspect Ryan Routh. Routh allegedly aimed a rifle at Trump outside Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. While Routh did not fire, the event underscored ongoing threats against the president-elect. Investigators are working to understand Routh’s motives and connections.
Subpoenas Aim to Break Impasse
The subpoenas target ATF personnel directly involved in the investigations. One subpoenaed agent participated in the ATF’s response to the Butler shooting. A supervisory agent has also been called to testify.
The task force is determined to hold the ATF accountable. It outlined 17 specific requests for document production, prioritizing details related to the attacks and the agency’s response. Task force member Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., emphasized the importance of accessing encrypted accounts used by Crooks, as they may reveal critical evidence.
Despite the ATF’s delayed and insufficient cooperation, the task force remains resolute in its investigation. Both the July and September incidents have highlighted significant gaps in communication and coordination that demand immediate attention.
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