Secret Service behavior concerns Collins

Following the recent release of a report on the subculture of the Secret Service from the Department of Homeland Security, Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) said a history of risky behavior within the agency could jeopardize national security.

The Department of Homeland Security launched an investigation into the behavior of Secret Service agents after a scandal unfolded in Cartagena, Columbia, in April 2012 during a presidential visit. Thirteen employees were accused of hiring prostitutes.

Although the report concluded there are not widespread problems within the Secret Service, Collins, former chairwoman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, raised concerns.

“…This report does confirm that there is a certain subculture at the Secret Service that engages in risky behavior that could put national security and the mission of the Secret Service at risk,” Collins said. “Certainly, the majority of the men and women in the Secret Service are honorable and hard-working public servants who put their lives on the line every day. Those who participate in the subculture described in this report tarnish the good work of others who do their jobs with honor and integrity.”

Collins and Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), former ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, initiated the DHS investigation into the rules governing Secret Service conduct and records of misconduct following the incident in Columbia.