An incident involving Secret Service agents at a Massachusetts salon has sparked controversy and feelings of violation for the business owner.
Business Insider reported that Alice Powers, who owns Four One Three Salon in Pittsfield, says agents entered her business without permission, taped over security cameras, used the facilities, and left the building unlocked during a Kamala Harris fundraiser.
The episode occurred on July 27, when Vice President Kamala Harris was attending a campaign event in the nearby Colonial Theatre.
The salon, located behind the theatre, was selected for a security sweep prior to the event.
Salon owner Alicia Powers described feeling violated after learning that Secret Service agents had entered her business premises without consent. According to Powers, agents taped over her security camera and used the salon’s bathroom facilities.
Brian Smith, landlord of the building, confirmed that neither he, his father, nor the resident upstairs had given permission for entry. Powers noted the door’s lock appeared to have been picked but no significant damage was done.
"They left my building unlocked, alarming me greatly," said Powers, describing the agents’ activities. She also mentioned the security alarm rang incessantly during their unauthorized stay.
Secret Service Spokesperson Melissa McKenzie apologized after being contacted by Business Insider. The Boston-based head of the Secret Service office acknowledged the agents breached protocol.
"We value our relationships with the business community highly," McKenzie stated, emphasizing that entering without permission contradicts their standard practices. The service has also offered to cover the alarm company bill and clean the salon.
Former Secret Service special agent Bill Pickle commented, "Entering a property unpermitted usually only occurs in case of a real threat or crime scene, not during routine security sweeps."
Alicia Powers expressed her willingness to accommodate security needs had she been asked. “Whether for a celebrity or any visitor, I would have gladly assisted,” she noted.
Powers reported feeling profound disrespect from the unannounced intrusion. "Using the bathroom, alarming the premises, and then leaving my building unsecured was unacceptable," she said.
In a personal conversation with the Secret Service, Powers was told the actions taken were completely wrong. Her alarm was triggered for two hours as various individuals entered, and Powers remained deeply disturbed by the experience.
Brian Smith confirmed the lack of authorization from property owners for the Secret Service entry. He shared that no clearance was granted, which led to further confusion and frustration.
Alicia Powers wishes for the Secret Service to understand the business she runs in the community. She invited the head of the Boston-based office to visit and see firsthand the impact of their actions.
Conclusively, the incident has raised concerns about respect and protocol within high-security operations.
The unauthorized entry by the Secret Service has left Alicia Powers and her community feeling alienated and disregarded.
