The U.S. Secret Service is currently investigating a concerning incident that occurred approximately two weeks ago, when an intoxicated man managed to enter the home of President Biden’s national security adviser Jake Sullivan in Washington, D.C., without being detected by agents guarding his house. The intruder seemed to be confused about where he was and did not display any signs of forced entry.
Sullivan confronted the individual around 3 a.m. in late April and instructed him to leave immediately, which he complied with. Fortunately, there were no physical altercations or harm caused during the confrontation.
This breach has sparked alarm among a small group of White House and national security officials who have been made aware of the episode. Notably, heightened levels of security for national security advisers had been implemented by the Secret Service in 2021 following an uncovered Iranian plot last October targeting John Bolton—former United States National Security Advisor—and charges brought against an Iranian military official this August.
In response to this recent incident involving Sullivan's West End neighborhood residence—which receives around-the-clock Secret Service protection—officials have launched "a comprehensive mission assurance investigation" tasked with reviewing all aspects connected with what transpired.
A statement from the Secret Service confirmed their active engagement in examining how this intrusion took place: "The Secret Service has opened a comprehensive mission assurance investigation to review all facets of what occurred."
This unsettling occurrence follows another high-profile attack on former Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D-Calif.) home last year when her husband was assaulted with a hammer inside their San Francisco residence by an unknown assailant.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan remains unharmed after confronting and expelling the intruder from his property; however, concerns persist over how such breaches may occur despite protective measures afforded by agencies like the U.S. Secret Service.
As more details emerge regarding this ongoing investigation into potential security vulnerabilities, the public will be keenly watching for updates that can address these concerns and ensure the safety of key government officials.