FBI criticized for mishandling evidence in Trump assassination attempt investigation

Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) has raised serious concerns regarding the FBI's investigation into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump last month. As a member of a bipartisan task force investigating the incident, Higgins released a preliminary report after approximately 20 hours of inquiry. He expressed shock upon discovering that the FBI had released the body of the would-be assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, for cremation just ten days after the shooting, which he described as "disturbing" and potentially obstructive to further investigations. Higgins criticized the FBI for cleaning up biological evidence from the crime scene, a practice he deemed "unheard of." He noted that the rapid release of the crime scene after only three days raised suspicions among first responders, who expressed surprise and dismay at the decision. The congressman emphasized the importance of examining the assassin's body to verify the accuracy of the coroner's and autopsy reports, stating that without direct examination, he could not be certain of their validity. Additionally, Higgins highlighted concerns regarding the Secret Service's response during the incident, particularly their failure to utilize critical equipment provided by local law enforcement. The Secret Service acknowledged the need for a review of inter-agency communications related to the event, committing to investigate any policy violations by personnel involved. The investigation revealed that Crooks had strategically positioned himself to minimize counter-fire, resulting in a tragic outcome where three rallygoers were shot, including the fatality of firefighter Corey Comperatore.