
A man was arrested near a Donald Trump rally in Coachella, California, for possessing an illegal shotgun and a loaded handgun. The incident occurred at 4:59 PM local time on Saturday, underscoring the heightened security measures surrounding the former president as the presidential election approaches.
The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Vem Miller, was stopped at a security checkpoint while driving a black SUV. Deputies discovered the firearms and a high-capacity magazine. Miller was taken into custody without incident and charged with misdemeanor weapons offenses, later released on $5,000 bail.
The U.S. Secret Service confirmed that Trump was not in danger during the incident and that it did not affect protective operations. Miller’s arrest comes after two high-profile assassination attempts on Trump earlier this year.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who has publicly supported Trump, referred to Miller as a “lunatic.” He stated that while it’s difficult to ascertain the suspect’s intentions, he believes the actions of his officers may have thwarted a potential threat.
Miller reportedly had a homemade license plate, multiple passports with different names, and various driving licenses in his vehicle. He also claimed to be affiliated with the far-right group Sovereign Citizens, a group that rejects government authority.
Federal authorities, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Secret Service, and FBI, are investigating the incident, but no federal charges have been filed yet. Security for Trump has been increased following previous assassination attempts, including a recent rally in Pennsylvania where gunfire occurred.
Bianco indicated that, as the suspect approached the rally, he initially appeared to belong there, but irregularities became apparent as he got closer.