Butler Township Manager Defends Police Response in Trump Assassination Attempt

Thomas Knights, Butler Township manager, provides insights into the local officers' encounter with shooter Thomas Crooks, highlighting their adherence to training protocols and efforts to contain the situation.

Butler Township manager Thomas Knights has defended the swift and effective response of local police officers during the assassination attempt on former President Trump at his rally on Saturday. Amidst criticism from the public and media, Knights emphasizes that the officers' actions were in line with their training and played a crucial role in minimizing the severity of the situation.

During an interview with Fox News Digital, Knights sheds light on the moments leading up to the shooting, providing a detailed account of the officers' response. When alerted to a suspicious person on the ground, officers swiftly shifted their focus from traffic control to investigating the potential threat. As attendees pointed out the armed individual on the roof of a nearby building, officers established a perimeter around the structure.

Butler Township Manager Defends Police Response in Trump Assassination Attempt

Knights explains that one officer positioned themselves strategically to gain visibility of the individual on the roof. Despite their efforts, the officer was unable to see the suspect from their vantage point. Consequently, another officer assisted by lifting their colleague high enough to grab the edge of the roof and observe the suspect directly.

Upon spotting the armed individual pointing their weapon at the officer, a defensive position was taken. However, the officer's grip slipped, resulting in an eight-foot fall that left them with a sprained ankle. Despite this setback, both officers swiftly reported the suspect's presence and armament, alerting the team to the potential danger.

Butler Township Manager Defends Police Response in Trump Assassination Attempt

Knights underscores that the swift identification of the shooter by local officers played a pivotal role in mitigating the potential for further harm. He attributes this success to the officers' training and their ability to adapt seamlessly from traffic control to a potential active shooter scenario.

However, Knights acknowledges the ongoing criticism and speculation surrounding the incident, particularly regarding the time gap between the initial events and the release of an official report. He expresses hope that the report will provide a comprehensive timeline and clarity, dispelling any misunderstandings or misinformation.

Butler Township Manager Defends Police Response in Trump Assassination Attempt

Knights also highlights the resilience and professionalism displayed by the officers amidst intense scrutiny and criticism. He encourages individuals who may have expressed harsh reactions to reconsider their stance once a complete understanding of the situation emerges.

In conclusion, Knights' insights offer a compelling perspective on the officers' response during the Trump assassination attempt. He emphasizes their adherence to training protocols, effective containment efforts, and the need for a thorough and timely investigation to provide clarity and quell unfounded criticism.

Butler Township Manager Defends Police Response in Trump Assassination Attempt