A man was arrested near a rally for former President Donald Trump in Coachella on Monday after law enforcement found multiple firearms in his vehicle, along with a suspicious “homemade” license plate and several passports, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco said.
The incident occurred just before Trump made an appearance at the rally, where thousands had amassed to show their support for his 2024 presidential candidacy. Deputies noticed his vehicle parked near the event and its peculiar license plate led deputies to be suspicious.
After a search of the vehicle, authorities seized several firearms, which included rifles handguns, and assorted ammunition. The sheriff’s office was unable to provide specific numbers concerning how many weapons were found or even any loaded weapons. Other suspicions were raised by the man having multiple passports from different countries.
A suspect whose name has not been released was taken into custody without incident. Now, under multiple counts of firearms possession and forgery, the case draws in federal authorities.
Sheriff Bianco was only later in the day to comment to the press, stating, “I think our officers did a great job in securing the area and avoiding any kind of hazard. Because of their prompt response, we managed to prevent what could have been a very serious situation.
The involvement of the homemade license plate and the multiple passports is deeply concerning, and we are working with federal agencies to understand the full scope of this individual’s activities.”
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate whether the man was connected to the rally or if he planned to act on it. According to what occurred, security within the venue was heightened for the balance of Trump’s event, but no additional incidents were reported.
Authorities have encouraged those with information about the suspect or circumstances to contact the Sheriff’s Department.
This arrest marks the latest in a list of growing security concerns around rallies for high-profile political figures as the election season continues to heat up into 2024.
bed near the Trump Coachella event had various passports and a “homemade” license plate, according to the sheriff
