Authorities in California detained a man on state firearm charges near a Donald Trump rally, confirming the former president was never at risk, according to a statement from the US Secret Service, FBI, and Department of Justice. The arrest occurred on Saturday when the individual, found with a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and an oversized magazine, breached an initial security perimeter at the event in Coachella.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco identified the suspect as 49-year-old Vem Miller from Las Vegas during a press conference on Sunday. Miller managed to reach a secondary security layer before officials noticed discrepancies. Bianco detailed that Miller's car was untidy and unregistered, sporting counterfeit license plates. Furthermore, Miller had several IDs and passports under various names.
The reasons behind Miller's presence near the rally remain uncertain. Bianco mentioned that Miller claimed he was a journalist seeking entry into the event. Before the commencement of Trump's rally, law enforcement apprehended Miller on charges related to his possession of firearms. He was subsequently released after posting $5,000 bail.
Efforts by CNN to contact Miller have been unsuccessful thus far. Records indicate he is slated for court appearance on January 2nd. Contrary to allegations of intending harm towards Trump, Miller defended himself in statements to Fox News Digital and through a video on his Rumble account. He professed his support for Trump and insisted that he disclosed his weapons at the rally checkpoint because he habitually travels armed for protection.
Two federal officials informed CNN that there is presently no evidence suggesting an assassination attempt against Trump by Miller. The investigation remains active with no federal arrests made yet; however, federal agencies expressed appreciation for local law enforcement's role in safeguarding the rally.
The Trump campaign acknowledged law enforcement's efforts in securing the event and ensuring Trump's safety through a statement from spokesperson Steven Cheung, who also mentioned that they are keeping abreast of developments regarding the arrest.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco identified the suspect as 49-year-old Vem Miller from Las Vegas during a press conference on Sunday. Miller managed to reach a secondary security layer before officials noticed discrepancies. Bianco detailed that Miller's car was untidy and unregistered, sporting counterfeit license plates. Furthermore, Miller had several IDs and passports under various names.
The reasons behind Miller's presence near the rally remain uncertain. Bianco mentioned that Miller claimed he was a journalist seeking entry into the event. Before the commencement of Trump's rally, law enforcement apprehended Miller on charges related to his possession of firearms. He was subsequently released after posting $5,000 bail.
Efforts by CNN to contact Miller have been unsuccessful thus far. Records indicate he is slated for court appearance on January 2nd. Contrary to allegations of intending harm towards Trump, Miller defended himself in statements to Fox News Digital and through a video on his Rumble account. He professed his support for Trump and insisted that he disclosed his weapons at the rally checkpoint because he habitually travels armed for protection.
Two federal officials informed CNN that there is presently no evidence suggesting an assassination attempt against Trump by Miller. The investigation remains active with no federal arrests made yet; however, federal agencies expressed appreciation for local law enforcement's role in safeguarding the rally.
The Trump campaign acknowledged law enforcement's efforts in securing the event and ensuring Trump's safety through a statement from spokesperson Steven Cheung, who also mentioned that they are keeping abreast of developments regarding the arrest.
