Three non-law enforcement officials from the U.S. Secret Service’s communications office, including Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi, were placed on administrative leave on Monday as part of an internal investigation into potential misconduct. The employees were escorted from Secret Service headquarters in Washington, D.C., and stripped of their security clearances and access to work devices, according to multiple sources and an agency statement. The probe is being conducted by the Office of Professional Responsibility, the Secret Service’s internal standards body, and involves how classified or sensitive information may have reached the press.
The Secret Service confirmed the suspensions in a statement issued Tuesday, describing the three employees as non-law enforcement personnel placed on leave pending an investigation into potential misconduct. The agency did not name the individuals or specify the nature of the allegations, citing the ongoing review. A spokesperson reiterated the agency’s commitment to professionalism and integrity in its protective mission, stating that its workforce must maintain duty, honesty, and courage.
Scope of the Investigation
The inquiry appears to focus on potential unauthorized disclosures, as sources familiar with the matter indicated the FBI and CIA are participating in the review. This suggests the probe extends beyond a routine internal personnel matter. The Secret Service has not confirmed the involvement of external agencies but noted the Office of Professional Responsibility is leading the investigation. The agency declined to comment further while the review is underway.
Context and Recent Scrutiny
The suspensions follow heightened scrutiny of the Secret Service’s handling of sensitive information. Earlier this month, the agency launched an investigation into a member of Vice President JD Vance’s security detail for allegedly leaking sensitive details. The Secret Service described that inquiry as both an administrative review and a potential criminal inquiry, though no further updates have been provided.
The agency’s communications office, where the suspended officials worked, plays a critical role in managing public statements and media relations. The Secret Service’s protective mission—particularly amid elevated threats against high-profile officials—has drawn increased attention in recent months. The agency has faced calls for reform following a July 13, 2024 assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, which raised questions about security protocols and preparedness.
Procedural Details
Administrative leave and revocation of security clearances are standard procedures during internal investigations, and the actions do not constitute a finding of wrongdoing. The Secret Service has not indicated whether the current probe is connected to prior leaks or unrelated misconduct. The agency’s statement emphasized its zero-fail mission to protect the President and other officials, framing the suspensions as part of its commitment to accountability.