A security incident unfolded near a political rally, raising concerns about potential threats to public figures.
According to Fox News, law enforcement apprehended a man allegedly carrying illegal firearms close to former President Donald Trump's rally in Coachella, California. The suspect, identified as Vem Miller, claims to support the ex-president.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco held a press conference on Sunday to provide details about the arrest, which occurred on Saturday. Miller, a 49-year-old Las Vegas resident, was found in possession of a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine.
The incident took place around 5 pm when Miller drove a black SUV to the intersection of Avenue 52 and Celebration Drive. He attempted to enter the VIP section of the rally, giving the impression that he belonged there.
Deputies conducting security checks noticed irregularities with Miller's vehicle. Upon closer inspection, they discovered multiple passports and driver's licenses with different names, as well as an unregistered vehicle with a fake license plate.
Sheriff Bianco emphasized the potential danger averted, stating, "If you're asking me right now, I probably did have deputies that prevented the third assassination attempt."
Despite the gravity of the charges, Miller maintains his innocence. In an interview with Southern California News Group, he expressed shock at his arrest and denied any intention to harm Trump. Miller stated:
These accusations are complete bull—t. I'm an artist, I'm the last person that would cause any violence and harm to anybody.
He further claimed that he was not informed of the reason for his detainment and was only given the opportunity to contact a lawyer after eight hours in custody.
A multi-agency investigation involving local authorities, the FBI, and the Secret Service has been launched following an incident in Riverside County. The Riverside County Sheriff's Office confirmed the arrest posed no threat to former President Trump or attendees at the event.
Sources close to the Trump campaign have indicated to Fox News that they do not believe this was an assassination attempt on the former president.
Sheriff Bianco suggested that Miller's actions and false documentation were indicative of the sovereign citizen movement. This group believes they are not subject to federal government jurisdiction and considers themselves exempt from U.S. laws.
Bianco emphasized that the suspect's political affiliation was irrelevant, focusing instead on the potential threat posed:
I couldn't care less what political party he belongs to. I honestly, I think that's the stupidest thing in the world that we have to label something, and we're labeling this as politics. He was a lunatic.
A man carrying illegal firearms was arrested near Trump's rally in Coachella. The suspect, who claims to support Trump, was found with multiple passports, fake documentation, and weapons. Law enforcement agencies are investigating the incident, emphasizing that Trump's safety was not compromised. The suspect denies any harmful intentions, while authorities suggest possible links to the sovereign citizen movement.
