The Secret Service has officially closed its investigation into the cocaine discovered in the White House West Wing earlier this month, unable to pinpoint the individual responsible due to insufficient evidence. The announcement follows a thorough probe involving security system reviews, interviews, and forensic analysis.
The cocaine, found on July 2nd in a designated area for storing personal devices, prompted an extensive search spanning several days prior to the discovery. Investigators compiled a list of hundreds of individuals who potentially accessed the location, but forensic analysis of the packaging yielded no usable fingerprints or DNA.
Despite reviewing surveillance footage and conducting background checks for prior drug-related activity, the Secret Service couldn't link the cocaine to any specific person. The lack of physical evidence ultimately led to the closure of the investigation.
Congressional briefings on the investigation revealed additional details, including the small quantity of cocaine found (less than one gram) and the absence of a key for the locker where the substance was located. Lawmakers expressed concerns about security protocols, the missing key, and the lack of comprehensive logs or video surveillance of the locker area. One representative suggested drug testing all staffers present that weekend, while another emphasized the recurring difficulty in obtaining clear answers regarding incidents surrounding the White House.
Initial reports about the cocaine's location varied, with suggestions of the White House library and a heavily trafficked West Wing area before the final confirmation of the West Executive entrance vicinity. The incident occurred during President Biden's absence at Camp David. Some Republican critics have voiced skepticism about the administration's commitment to uncovering the responsible party.
