Police in California police arrested a man for carrying a gun near Trump’s golf course before the president’s planned visit.
The suspect, 38-year-old Jeanine John Taele, was taken into custody on Sunday at Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, near Los Angeles. Authorities said he was walking around the property, taking photos and videos, and appeared to be watching security operations.
Federal agents noticed his behaviour and alerted local deputies. When officers approached him, they discovered he was also wanted in connection with a robbery investigation by the El Segundo Police Department.
Police discovered a concealed pistol and a 16-round magazine loaded with hollow-point ammunition during a search. Officers later searched his parked vehicle and found another loaded magazine. California law bans magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.
Investigators later searched Taele’s home in Downey. The operation involved the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Inside the house, officers found an illegally modified AR-style rifle, a .45-calibre handgun, body armour, several high-capacity magazines, large amounts of ammunition, and notebooks containing what investigators described as concerning statements.
Taele is currently facing charges of carrying a concealed firearm and possessing prohibited ammunition. Officials said more charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The US Secret Service is also helping with the case because of the possible security concerns linked to the president’s visit. Even so, investigators said they have not found evidence of a direct or credible threat to the public.
President Trump arrived in California for a Republican fundraising dinner at his golf course on Tuesday. During the visit, he is also expected to deliver a speech criticising California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is widely seen as a possible candidate in the 2028 presidential election.
After California, Trump is scheduled to travel to Las Vegas on Wednesday to speak at a casino event. The visit comes as political campaigning increases ahead of the US midterm elections in November, when control of Congress will be decided.
Trump has survived several assassination attempts recently, leading to tighter security around his public appearances. However, authorities stressed that they have not accused Taele of planning to harm the president. At this stage, the charges only relate to the weapons allegedly found in his possession. Investigators say they are continuing to examine the evidence before deciding whether any additional charges.
