Deputies assigned to the security detail of former President Donald Trump’s rally in California’s Coachella Valley made an arrest on Saturday at a checkpoint. The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Vem Miller from Las Vegas, Nevada, was found with a loaded firearm, a shotgun, and a high-capacity magazine. The arrest took place at the intersection of Avenue 52 and Celebration Drive in Coachella.
During a news conference, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco disclosed that Miller’s vehicle had a fake license plate, leading to further investigation. It was revealed that Miller was in possession of a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine illegally. Moreover, the vehicle was unregistered, and authorities discovered multiple passports and driver’s licenses with different names inside.
Miller was taken into custody without incident at the outer perimeter of the rally venue, which was being patrolled by deputies. Despite Miller appearing to have documentation to attend the rally, a homemade license plate caught the attention of law enforcement. This homemade plate indicated possible ties to sovereign citizens, a group known for rejecting government authority.
After the arrest, Miller was charged with possession of a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine. While the Riverside County Sheriff suspected an assassination attempt, the US Attorney’s Office clarified that there was no danger to former President Trump. Miller was charged with two misdemeanor weapons charges and later released. The investigation is ongoing, with cooperation between the Sheriff’s Department, Secret Service, and FBI.
In light of recent events, it’s important to note that this incident comes after two previous assassination attempts on Trump. In July, a gunman fired shots during a rally in Pennsylvania, grazing Trump’s ear and resulting in a fatality. Secret Service intervention prevented further harm. Another incident occurred at Trump’s Florida golf course, where a man was apprehended with an AK-47-style weapon. This individual, Ryan Wesley Routh, faces charges of attempted assassination and firearms offenses.
The authorities are actively investigating the matter, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
