A Nevada man was arrested at a security checkpoint outside a Donald Trump rally in Coachella, California after authorities found a shotgun, loaded handgun, ammunition, and multiple fake passports in his vehicle. The 49-year-old suspect claimed to be a journalist, but his vehicle’s interior was in disarray, prompting officials to search it. He was arrested on suspicion of possessing a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine.
Former President Trump had not arrived at the rally when the arrest took place, and the incident did not impact his safety or that of attendees. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court in January 2025, and authorities are continuing to investigate his motives. Security measures at Trump rallies have been increased following recent assassination attempts on the former president.
The man had passed an outer security boundary but was stopped at the inner perimeter patrolled by law enforcement, with the Secret Service operating another checkpoint closer to the rally site. Media members and VIP ticket holders were thoroughly searched before entering the event, while general ticket holders were bussed in from a separate location.
Trump’s campaign has not commented on the arrest, and the investigation is ongoing. The U.S. Secret Service has stated that no federal arrest has been made at this time. Security remains a top priority at Trump rallies in light of recent events, and authorities are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of all attendees.
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