The toddler’s intrusion at the White House on Tuesday has earned him the title of one of the tiniest White House intruders. The curious toddler squeezed through the metal fencing on the north side of the executive mansion.
The U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division officers, who are in charge of the White House security, went across the North Lawn to retrieve the toddler and reunite him with his parents on Pennsylvania Avenue. During the reunification, access to the complex was temporarily restricted while officers conducted the necessary procedures. The officers briefly questioned the parents before allowing them to proceed on their way.
Anthony Guglielmi, the Secret Service spokesman, reported that officers encountered a curious young visitor along the White House north fence line, who briefly entered the White House grounds. He added that the White House security systems immediately triggered Secret Service officers, and the toddler and parents were quickly reunited. Guglielmi issued a statement regarding the incident.
This incident may mark the first successful intrusion onto the White House complex since the height of its fence was increased to approximately 13 feet (3.96 meters) in recent years, following a series of security breaches. Despite being taller, the new fence has a minor additional inch of space between pickets, for a total of 5½ inches (12.7 centimeters) between posts.
The iconic barrier at the White House has seen older children getting stuck in it on some occasions. The fence has also been the site of demonstrations, with protesters chaining themselves to it to make their voices heard.