The Secret Service is conducting an investigation on one of its agents following an incident involving a member of Kamala Harris‘ staff, according to a statement from the vice president’s office.
A spokesperson for the US Secret Service said that the agent had been placed on administrative leave during the investigation. “The US Secret Service Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating a misconduct allegation involving an employee,” said a spokesperson.However, it did not provide further details.
Harris’ office emphasised its “zero tolerance for sexual misconduct,” saying that senior officials were “alerted by the USSS about an incident involving an agent and informed that USSS initiated an investigation.”
The incident allegedly occurred when a Secret Service agent forced himself onto a Harris staffer in a hotel room in Wisconsin during a trip to scout potential campaign stops, the Real Clear Politics reported.
According to the news outlet, the agent and multiple Harris staffers visited the hotel room of the Harris aide following drinks and dinner. It was during this visit that the agent reportedly assaulted her and touched her inappropriately.
The alleged incident occurred during a preliminary trip for a Harris campaign event in Wisconsin that was ultimately cancelled. Harris was not present at the time of the incident. Others reportedly witnessed the alleged incident as per Real Clear Politics.
The Secret Service, which is responsible for the protection of US political leaders and their families, has been under scrutiny after former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13.
The agency’s former director resigned following the incident, and a subsequent investigation pointed to a lack of diligence before the attempt.