Over the weekend, a rally for President Trump in Riverside County, California, was rocked by an unsettling incident that authorities now suspect may have been an “assassination attempt.” Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco announced that 49-year-old Vem Miller was arrested outside the event, in possession of firearms and other suspicious items. Miller, who claims to be a Trump supporter, vehemently denies any nefarious intent, calling the accusations “complete bulls***.”
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reported that Miller was stopped Saturday evening in a black SUV. Inside, deputies discovered a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine—none of which he had the legal right to carry. As the situation escalated, Sheriff Bianco revealed that the vehicle had an unregistered, “obviously fake license plate,” which triggered further suspicion. Upon searching the car, deputies also found multiple passports and driver’s licenses, each bearing a different name. The sheriff noted that the incident bore hallmarks of a “sovereign citizen” tactic, referring to individuals who reject government authority, adding, “I truly do believe that we prevented another assassination attempt.”
Miller, who posted bail and was released from the John J. Benoit Detention Center shortly after his arrest, spoke out against the accusations. “I’m an artist,” he said, expressing disbelief over the charges. “I’m the last person that would cause any violence and harm to anybody.” He also denied any affiliation with sovereign citizen groups.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and FBI, are now involved in the investigation, although federal authorities have not yet filed charges. The U.S. Secret Service issued a statement clarifying that they do not believe Miller posed any direct threat to Trump, noting, “The U.S. Secret Service assesses that the incident did not impact protective operations and President Trump was not in any danger.” Despite this, the Secret Service, along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, emphasized that their investigation remains active and ongoing.
The Trump campaign expressed gratitude to local law enforcement, stating that they are “monitoring the situation and gathering more information.” Sheriff Bianco, however, dismissed Miller’s denials, asserting that they had no bearing on the case, underscoring the seriousness of the incident.
As authorities dig deeper, the political implications of Miller’s actions remain murky. While he claims to be a Trump supporter, the situation raises troubling questions about the safety of high-profile political figures in today’s polarized climate. With multiple law enforcement agencies now on the case, the full story behind this incident may soon emerge. For now, local officials remain on high alert, and Miller’s curious background and motives will be scrutinized as the investigation unfolds.
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