The U.S. Secret Service needs to upgrade radio systems used around the White House complex, at the vice president’s residence, and at embassies, the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General said in a report. The IG also said the Secret Service should “develop a strategy and timeline to continuously upgrade radio communications systems.”

“Secret Service records show that, on average, the radios and associated infrastructure are between … years old and may not be working as effectively as needed,” according to a redacted version of the report that omitted the age of the radio systems. “If the Secret Service continues to use these outdated radio communications systems, it may negatively impact their protective operations.”

The report said the IG’s office observed 186 radio tests and that of those six, or 3%, were not successful. A Secret Service log reviewed for the audit “showed more than 100 instances during an 11-month period, where technical issues interrupted radio systems and communications,” the report said. The report said that the Secret Service has requested funding to upgrade radio communications systems and that it plans to spend $54.2 million by fiscal year 2019 on the upgrades.

In response to the report, Secret Service Director Joseph Clancy said in a letter that his agency concurs in the recommendations. He said that an upgrade of the current radio infrastructure should be completed by Dec. 31, 2017. He also said the Secret Service is developing “a sustainment strategy and timeline for continuous upgrade and maintenance for the radio infrastructure and system. A complete Life Cycle Cost Estimate, to include out-year sustainment and technical refresh costs, will be developed as part of the initial stage of the radio project.” The estimated completion date of the life cycle cost estimate is March 31, he said.

The radio communications problems detailed in the IG’s report drew criticism today from House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R., Utah.). “This is another inexcusable security vulnerability at the White House,” he said. “Radio communication is critical for a quick response to a security incident. This is not a lack of funding issue. This problem stems from mismanagement and poor prioritizing by DHS leadership. In recent years, USSS has received more funding than requested. They’ve had ample resources to prevent such a dangerous situation. USSS has a no fail mission. [DHS] Secretary [Jeh] Johnson must fix the problems within USSS before the president’s life is put in further danger.” – Paul Kirby, paul.kirby@wolterskluwer.com

Courtesy TRDaily