Documented security arrangements and arrested while armed: Suspicion of a threat to Donald Trump
The suspect filmed the president's golf club grounds in California and appeared to be tracking security preparations at the site. A rifle that was illegally modified, a pistol, a bulletproof vest, and notebooks containing "alarming statements" were found in his home. The Secret Service and the FBI are investigating whether he posed a threat to the president.
An armed man was arrested on Sunday outside the golf club of US President Donald Trump in Southern California, ahead of his expected visit to the area. This was reported by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
The suspect was arrested after federal agents reported a suspicious person moving around the club's grounds. According to the police, he took photos and videos and appeared to be monitoring the security preparations at the site.
Police identified the suspect as 38-year-old Jenini John Taale from the city of Downey. He was arrested on suspicion of carrying a concealed weapon and possession of prohibited ammunition. In addition, he is being investigated as part of a robbery case handled by the El Segundo Police Department.
Following the "potential security implications of the incident," investigators from the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force conducted a search of his home on Monday. During the search, an AR-style rifle that investigators claim was illegally modified, a .45 caliber pistol, a bulletproof vest, high-capacity magazines, ammunition, radio signal receiving devices, and notebooks containing "alarming statements" were seized.
The Secret Service is investigating whether the suspect posed a threat to Donald Trump. A federal official initially told CNN that there is no indication he planned to harm the president, but emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
The FBI task force and the Secret Service are assisting in the investigation, and it is possible that additional charges will be added against the suspect later. Donald Trump is expected to arrive today (Wednesday) in Los Angeles for an event of the Republican National Committee.
