In mid-January 2026, a U.S. Secret Service agent assigned to Vice President JD Vance’s protective detail became the subject of controversy after being caught on hidden camera sharing sensitive security information. The incident, exposed by conservative activist and journalist James O’Keefe through his O’Keefe Media Group, led to the agent’s swift suspension and highlighted ongoing concerns about operational security in the agency.
The agent, identified in multiple reports as Tomas Escotto—a five-year veteran described by O’Keefe as a holdover from the Biden administration—was recorded in conversations and text exchanges with a woman he met on the dating app Tinder in October 2025. Unbeknownst to him, the woman was an undercover journalist working for O’Keefe. In a 14-minute video released on January 13, 2026, Escotto allegedly discussed details including protective formations used by the detail, shift schedules, advance travel plans, and real-time locations related to Vice President Vance. He reportedly shared photos from locations such as aboard Air Force Two and near Vance’s residence, some with metadata that could reveal approximate positions. In the footage, Escotto also expressed personal political views, stating he voted for Joe Biden and criticizing aspects of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, including ICE operations.
O’Keefe Media Group stated that it coordinated with Vance’s team and the Secret Service before publication, redacting or blocking information in the video that could still pose a current risk to the vice president’s safety. The group framed the release as an effort to expose vulnerabilities and strengthen protections, especially in light of recent incidents like a January 2026 break-in at Vance’s Cincinnati home.
The U.S. Secret Service responded quickly. Deputy Director Matthew Quinn issued a statement confirming the agent had been placed on administrative leave, with his security clearance suspended. Quinn emphasized the agency’s “no tolerance” policy for behavior that could compromise protectees’ safety, privacy, or trust. He added that the Secret Service “deeply apologizes to the Vance family for this violation” and ordered agency-wide retraining on anti-espionage protocols. An internal memo reportedly described the agent as having been “deliberately targeted and manipulated” by a media organization that misrepresented its intentions.
The episode has sparked debate about the risks of undercover journalism tactics versus the critical need for discretion in protective services. It also renewed scrutiny of the Secret Service following high-profile security lapses in recent years. As of January 15, 2026, the agent remains on leave pending further investigation, and Vice President Vance’s detail has reportedly undergone adjustments to address the breach.
SOURCES:
Secret Service agent suspended after video shows alleged leak of VP Vance’s travel details
BREAKING: U.S. Secret Service Agent Assigned to VP JD Vance Leaks Sensitive Security Information to Undercover Reporter – O’Keefe Media Group
Secret Service agent assigned to JD Vance placed on leave after being caught ‘leaking sensitive details’ | Daily Mail Online
Secret Service agent suspended after undercover video
Secret Service Agent on JD Vance Detail Placed on Leave After Leaking Sensitive Information, O’Keefe Reports – VINnews
JD Vance’s Secret Service agent suspended over alleged security breach | Fox News
Vance’s Secret Service Agent Caught Leaking Sensitive Details – PJ Media
