A third assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump was averted when a man from Las Vegas was arrested near Trump’s campaign rally in Coachella Valley, California, on Saturday. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco confirmed the arrest occurred about half a mile from the venue.
Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies apprehended Vem Miller at a checkpoint on Avenue 52 and Celebration Drive at around 5 p.m. Miller, in a black SUV, was found illegally possessing a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine.
Sheriff Bianco informed the Southern California News Group that Miller, linked to a right-wing anti-government group, likely aimed to assassinate Trump. His suspicion was triggered when Miller presented counterfeit VIP and press passes at the checkpoint.
Miller, who holds a master’s degree from UCLA and a registered Republican, unsuccessfully ran for the Nevada state assembly in 2022. He identifies with the sovereign citizen movement, which rejects government authority unless individually acknowledged.
The Sheriff’s Department reinforced security by establishing a double perimeter around the rally, restricting residents’ access, and vigilantly monitoring the area.
He praised his deputies for their diligence under challenging conditions, with temperatures nearing 100 degrees. The US Secret Service commended the Sheriff’s Department for their exceptional efforts in ensuring the safety of Trump and attendees.
Simultaneously, the FBI questioned another individual after bomb-detecting dogs signalled his presence multiple times. He was denied entry to the rally, and further details remain undisclosed.
Miller was detained at the John J. Benoit Detention Center on charges of possessing a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine. He was released on $5,000 bail, with a court date set for January 2, 2025.
The US Secret Service issued a statement acknowledging the arrest, ensuring that the incident did not compromise its operations. The service thanked the deputies and local partners for securing the event.
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