WASHINGTON
The U.S. Secret Service is reviewing security procedures around the White House after two incidents since Friday challenged existing protocols, with one person accused of entering the president’s home.
Omar J. Gonzalez, a veteran of the second U.S. war in Iraq, allegedly scaled a perimeter fence Friday, blitzed across the lawn and entered the front door of the White House before being stopped.
Gonzalez was charged Saturday with trespassing and carrying a deadly weapon. He allegedly had a knife in his possession when he was arrested.
A federal prosecutor said that more than 800 rounds of ammunition, a machete and two hatchets were found inside his car.
David Mudd, an Assistant U.S. Attorney, said that Gonzalez was a danger to President Barack Obama during an initial court appearance on Monday.
Less than 24 hours after Gonzalez climbed the fence, 19-year-old Kevin Carr drove up to a security barrier before exiting his vehicle. He was arrested after refusing to leave, Secret Service spokesman Brian Leary told CNN.
Carr was charged with unlawful entry, according to Leary.
Following the incidents, the Secret Service has increased foot patrols and surveillance around the White House, and begun a review of its security procedures, Press Secretary Josh Earnest said Monday.
“I can tell you that the senior Secret Service officials who are responsible for conducting this review are carrying it out with a sense of urgency,” he said. “I know this is something that they are pursuing urgently and I know that this is a review that began on Friday night.”
One of the potential changes the secret service is considering is setting up screening checkpoints around the White House, according to The Associated Press, that cited an anonymous law enforcement official.
Obama backed the efforts of the security service, saying that they do a "great job, and I’m grateful for the sacrifices that they make on my behalf – and my family’s behalf."
The Secret Service is tasked with the protection of the president, the president’s family, and all Cabinet members within the administration.
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