FBI Lacks Full Access to Shooter’s Encrypted Online Activity in Trump Assassination Attempt: Report

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate revealed on Tuesday that federal investigators are struggling to access encrypted emails from Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who shot at former President Donald Trump.

During a joint testimony before the Senate Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees, Abbate admitted that the FBI does not have full access to the information on Crooks’ cellphone due to encryption.

“Some of the email accounts will be broken into them. There are some that we have not been able to get information back because of their encrypted nature,” Abbate said.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a ranking member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, pressed Abbate on the issue. “So you’re telling me the guy who took eight shots at the former president has apps we can’t get into?” Graham asked. “Maybe if you could get into it, it would reveal some relevant information.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham listens as Sen. Rand Paul speaks during a joint committee hearing on the security failures leading to the assassination attempt on former President Trump at the US Capitol on July 30, 2024. (Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images)

“That is correct, Senator,” Abbate confirmed. Graham inquired about the potential for foreign involvement, to which Abbate responded, “Senator, you know, as we’ve been saying, we need a solution that provides lawful access.”

The FBI had previously stated that it successfully accessed Crooks’ phone but faced challenges with encryption, particularly from foreign-based email accounts. While the FBI has reported no evidence of foreign involvement, the encryption has caused delays in the investigation.

Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe Jr. and FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate testify as a photo is being displayed detailing the events that led to the July 13 assassination attempt of former President Trump. (Kevin Mohatt/Reuters)

This admission comes as part of the ongoing fallout from the July 13 shooting at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attack injured Trump and two others and resulted in the death of one attendee. The incident has prompted multiple congressional hearings and led to the resignation of former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. Acting Director Ronald Rowe has since taken over the agency.

The investigation into the shooting continues, with federal agencies working to uncover all relevant information related to Crooks’ motives and connections.