A man arrested near a Trump rally in California was found with loaded firearms and multiple forms of identification, raising security concerns at the former president’s events. Trump has survived two assassination attempts and may have dodged a third one. The man arrested identified as Ven Miller claimed to be a journalist. Miller was released on a $5,000 bail which sparked controversy.
Arrest Details and Suspect Profile
Law enforcement officials arrested Vem Miller, a 49-year-old Las Vegas resident, near a Trump rally checkpoint in Coachella, California. The suspect was found in possession of illegal firearms and multiple forms of identification, raising alarms about potential security threats at the former president’s events.
According to reports, Miller’s SUV contained a shotgun, a loaded handgun, a high-capacity magazine, and fake license plates. Additionally, authorities discovered multiple passports and driver’s licenses under different names in his possession. The suspect claimed to be a journalist with a pass to attend the rally, further complicating the situation.
Vem Miller, armed man arrested near Trump rally, denies wanting to hurt ex-prez: ‘Complete bullsh-t’ https://t.co/Y44jxbMOab pic.twitter.com/ej6R6xLLZK
— New York Post (@nypost) October 14, 2024
Law Enforcement Response and Investigation
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco described Miller as a “lunatic” and suggested a possible affiliation with the Sovereign Citizens, a far-right anti-government group. This characterization adds another layer of concern to the incident, given the group’s history of confrontations with law enforcement.
Miller was booked on state weapons charges and released on a $5,000 bail, with a court date set for January 2. The FBI and Secret Service are conducting a thorough investigation into any potential threat to Trump, although no federal charges have been filed against Miller at this time. The arrest occurred before Trump arrived at the venue, and officials have stated that the incident did not impact the rally’s overall safety.
Heightened Security Measures at Trump Events
This incident underscores the intensified security measures being implemented at Trump campaign events following two previous assassination attempts. The Trump campaign expressed gratitude to law enforcement for ensuring safety at the rally, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between campaign organizers and security personnel.
NEW: Security Alert: Man Arrested With Guns Near Trump Rally: Third Assass*nation Attempt?
California police arrested 49-year-old Vem Miller near a Trump rally in Coachella for possessing illegal firearms.
Sheriff Chad Bianco noted the arrest might have prevented an… pic.twitter.com/pbvRhYFPZP
— Blake (@_BlakeHabyan) October 13, 2024
The arrest of Vem Miller serves as a stark reminder of the potential threats faced by high-profile political figures and the extensive efforts required to safeguard public events. As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to protect former President Trump and ensure the safety of attendees at his rallies.
