US Secret Service suspends agent over leak of VP Vance’s travel details

A US Secret Service agent identified as Tomas Escotto has been placed on administrative leave after a covertly recorded video appeared to show him sharing sensitive information about Vice President JD Vance’s movements and security arrangements.

The footage, released online by conservative activist James O’Keefe and his media organisation, allegedly shows Escotto discussing details of the vice president’s travel plans and protective protocols with a woman he believed to be a romantic acquaintance, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The US Secret Service confirmed that the agent had been suspended, with his security clearance revoked and access to agency systems withdrawn, pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

In a statement, Deputy Director Matthew Quinn said the agency was treating the matter “with the utmost seriousness”, adding that any unauthorised disclosure of protective information would represent a serious breach of professional standards.

The 14-minute video was filmed using a hidden camera by a woman presented by O’Keefe as an undercover operative. Screenshots included in the release allegedly show messages containing photographs and location details related to Vance.

While criticising what he described as the “deceptive tactics” used to obtain the footage, Quinn said the conduct of the agent identified in the video was now under formal review.

“The individual in question has been placed on administrative leave, with his clearance suspended and access to agency facilities and systems revoked,” he said.

The Secret Service has also ordered all personnel to retake mandatory anti-espionage training, aimed at reinforcing awareness of attempts to exploit agency employees for sensitive information.

Quinn apologised to Vice President Vance and his family, saying the agency regretted any violation of their “trust and privacy”.

The incident comes amid heightened concern over the vice president’s security. Last week, Vance’s private home in Ohio was broken into, and a federal judge has since ordered the suspect to remain in custody and undergo psychiatric assessment.

The Secret Service said it remains committed to protecting senior officials and preventing similar breaches in the future.

By Aghakazim Guliyev