A Secret Service agent has been removed from duty after being caught sleeping while on assignment at the United Nations General Assembly last week. The incident occurred during a critical security operation, raising concerns about the agency’s oversight and professionalism.
According to reports, the officer was observed asleep in full view of officials, including former President Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump, as well as other high-ranking attendees. The agent reportedly left an automatic rifle unattended while taking a break, according to multiple law enforcement sources. New York Police Department officers captured images of the behavior and reported it to a multi-agency command center.
A Secret Service spokesperson confirmed the officer was immediately relieved of duties after being notified of the alleged misconduct and returned to Washington, D.C., where he is now on administrative leave pending a disciplinary investigation. The agency reiterated its commitment to “strict professional standards,” stating that violations would result in immediate consequences.
The incident comes amid broader scrutiny of federal agencies under the Trump administration’s push to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth recently emphasized stricter physical and behavioral requirements for military personnel, signaling pressure on other agencies to adopt similar measures.
Critics have called for a comprehensive review of the Secret Service’s protocols, citing repeated lapses in discipline. The agency has not commented further on the case, which highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining security standards during high-profile events.