Feds Say Trump Was Not in Danger Following Arrest Near Trump Rally

An armed man arrested near a Trump rally in California has made headlines as local authorities, the suspect, and federal authorities clash over intentions.

At a Glance

Vem Miller was arrested with weapons and fake IDs near a Trump rally in Coachella, California.
Riverside County Sheriff claimed it was a thwarted assassination attempt.
However, the Secret Service and FBI state Trump was not in danger.
Miller denies any intent to harm Trump, claiming to be a supporter.

Arrest Near Trump Rally

On October 13, 2024, law enforcement officials arrested Vem Miller, an armed man, near a Donald Trump rally in Coachella, California. The incident quickly garnered attention when Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco claimed the arrest had prevented a potential assassination attempt on the former president. However, federal authorities have presented a different perspective, leading to conflicting narratives about the event’s significance and Miller’s intentions.

During a routine security check about half a mile from the rally entrance, officers intercepted Miller. He was found in possession of a shotgun, a loaded handgun, a high-capacity magazine, and multiple fake IDs. The discovery of these items raised immediate concerns among local law enforcement, prompting Sheriff Bianco to make a bold statement about the arrest’s implications.

“I truly do believe we prevented another assassination attempt,” Bianco said.

Federal Authorities Say Otherwise

Despite the sheriff’s alarming assertion, federal agencies are saying otherwise. The Secret Service and FBI issued a joint statement asserting that former President Trump was never in any danger during the rally. They are also reportedly not investigating the incident as an assassination attempt.

Miller’s Background and Claims

Vem Miller is reportedly a registered Republican with a master’s degree from UCLA. Miller previously ran for Nevada state Assembly in 2022. He owns a CBD company and has been associated with the production of content critical of mainstream media through his America Happens Network.

Miller vehemently denies any intention to harm Trump, describing the assassination attempt allegations as “complete bulls–t.” He said he is a Trump supporter and states that he informed police about the guns in his car, which he says he carries for protection due to death threats related to his media work. Miller is believed to have a connection to the sovereign citizens movement, known for its anti-government stance.

Ongoing Investigation

While Miller was released on $5,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on January 2, 2025, the FBI and Secret Service continue their investigation. No federal charges have been filed, but he has been charged with possessing a loaded gun and a high-capacity magazine.

As the story continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between security concerns, political tensions, and individual rights in the current American landscape. The conflicting narratives surrounding Miller’s arrest highlight the challenges in balancing public safety with the presumption of innocence, especially in politically charged environments.