FBI Unlocks Phone Of Suspect In Trump Assassination Attempt
The FBI has announced that it has gained access to the phone of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old who tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. This marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the shooting that injured Trump and two others and killed Corey Comperatore.
In a statement on Monday, the FBI said its technical specialists had unlocked Crooks’ phone and were analyzing its contents. “FBI technical specialists successfully gained access to Thomas Matthew Crooks’ phone, and they continue to analyze his electronic devices,” the bureau stated. The search of Crooks’ residence and vehicle has also been completed.
The investigation has involved nearly 100 interviews with law enforcement personnel, rally attendees, and other witnesses. The FBI has received numerous digital media tips, including photos and videos from the scene, which they continue to review. Victim services personnel are providing assistance to those affected by the shooting.
Despite the FBI’s efforts, some Republicans have expressed concerns about the bureau’s ability to conduct an unbiased investigation. Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) voiced his constituents’ worries, stating, “My constituents are deeply concerned with the FBI conducting the sole investigation into the attempted assassination of President Trump. They don’t have faith in the current FBI leadership to get to the truth given how they have targeted President Trump with political witch hunt after political witch hunt at the behest of Joe Biden.”
The FBI has faced criticism for its handling of other significant cases, including the shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville. In that case, the bureau was accused of suppressing the writings of the transgender-identifying shooter who killed six people at the school.
Additionally, Republican lawmakers are questioning the Secret Service’s security measures at the rally. They have called on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to provide documents detailing the security protocols implemented before the event. Concerns have been raised about how Crooks managed to position himself on a rooftop so close to Trump during the rally.
As the investigation continues, the FBI is focused on analyzing the digital evidence and gathering more information to understand Crooks’ motives and actions. The findings from the FBI’s investigation will be critical in addressing security weaknesses and preventing similar incidents in the future.
