Vem Miller, a 49-year-old Las Vegas resident, was taken into custody on Saturday at a Donald Trump rally in Coachella, Southern California, after being found in possession of a loaded gun, shotgun, and high-capacity magazine. Miller, who is a registered Republican and a former candidate for Nevada’s state assembly, was later released on $5,000 bail.
Incident Details: A Close Call
According to Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, Miller was stopped at a checkpoint outside the rally venue, where deputies discovered the firearms and fake VIP and press passes. Bianco praised his deputies for their vigilance, stating, “I probably did have deputies that prevented the third assassination attempt.” Miller’s vehicle was also found to have:
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Multiple passports and driver’s licenses with different names
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An obviously fake, homemade license plate
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A disorganized interior, sparking further investigation
Miller’s Background: A Complex Profile
Miller, who holds a master’s degree from UCLA, campaigned for Nevada’s state assembly in 2022 but lost in the primary election. He considers himself a sovereign citizen, believing he is not subject to government laws unless he agrees to them. Miller has also been affiliated with:
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The NRA
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Produced television shows and podcasts
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Right-leaning anti-government groups
Trump’s Previous Assassination Attempts: A Concerning Pattern
This incident comes after two previous assassination attempts on Trump:
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On September 15, Ryan Routh was arrested at Trump International Golf Club with a firearm
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On July 13, Thomas Matthew Crooks fired shots at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania
Investigation and Response: A Multi-Agency Effort
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with:
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The FBI
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U.S. Secret Service
on this case. Bianco commended his deputies for their mental and physical effort in safeguarding the event. The Secret Service stated that the incident did not impact protective operations.
Vem Miller’s Campaign Finance: A Look at His Political Past
Miller’s 2022 campaign finance reports reveal:
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Total contributions: $16,694.22
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Total expenses: $21,308.36
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Resulting fund balance: $0
Upcoming Court Appearance: What’s Next for Miller
Miller is scheduled to appear in court in January. His arrest has sparked concerns about the potential for violence at political rallies.
Community Reaction: Shock and Concern
The incident has left the community in shock, with many expressing concerns about:
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The potential for violence at political events
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The ease of accessing firearms
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The need for increased security measures
Sheriff Bianco’s Statement: A Call to Action
“We don’t have the same sicko issues and violent protests like they have in Los Angeles. We’re better than that. Go figure,” Bianco said. “I am extremely proud of the mental and physical effort our deputies showed all day.”