Vem Miller Sues Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco for Defamation After Arrest at Trump Rally

Person with hands cuffed behind their back.

A Trump supporter’s arrest at a rally sparks controversy and legal action against the local sheriff.

At a Glance

Vem Miller, a self-described Trump supporter, was arrested at a rally in Coachella
Miller was found with firearms and multiple identification documents
Sheriff Chad Bianco suggested Miller might have intended to harm Trump
Miller vehemently denies any ill intent and plans to sue for defamation
The incident raises questions about Second Amendment rights and security at political events

Arrest at Trump Rally Leads to Defamation Lawsuit

In a surprising turn of events, Vem Miller, a self-proclaimed Trump supporter and investigative journalist, is taking legal action against Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco following his arrest at a recent Trump rally in Coachella, California. The incident has sparked a heated debate over Second Amendment rights, law enforcement procedures, and the delicate balance between public safety and individual liberties at political gatherings.

Miller was arrested outside the rally for illegal weapons possession after authorities found him with firearms, fake passports, and an unregistered vehicle sporting a handmade license plate. The discovery immediately raised red flags for law enforcement, leading to Miller’s detention and subsequent release on $5,000 bail.

Vem Miller talking about suing the police force in Riverside California. He says that he was denied a phone call to his attorney.

‘This is going to turn into a major lawsuit’: Vem Miller denies ‘assassination attempt,’ says he is a huge Trump supporterhttps://t.co/3H1LN1GdDP

— Thomas Stevenson (@RealTStevenson) October 14, 2024

Sheriff’s Allegations and Miller’s Defense

Sheriff Bianco’s public statements following the arrest have become the focal point of the controversy. The sheriff suggested that Miller might have intended to harm former President Trump, drawing parallels to past assassination attempts. This assertion has been met with vehement denial from Miller, who insists he is a staunch supporter of the former president.

“Trump has been one of my top few inspirations and he’s one of the few people if he were to really be shot by somebody, I’d be the first person to jump in front of that bullet because I feel as though the work that is doing is very important for the future of this country,” Miller told NBC4.

Miller claims he had a special invitation to the rally and routinely carries firearms for personal protection. He asserts that the weapons were legally purchased and registered in Nevada, where he resides. The incident has brought attention to the complexities surrounding interstate gun laws and the rights of individuals to bear arms at political events.

BREAKING: Man arrested near Trump's California rally was armed and tried to use fake VIP pass to enter venue, sheriff says

— BNO News (@BNONews) October 13, 2024

Support from Conservative Circles

Miller’s case has garnered support from some conservative activists who believe the arrest was an overreaction. Mindy Robinson, a friend of Miller, criticized the authorities for not thoroughly researching his background before making accusations.

“The fact he’s out on $5,000 bail proves they know he’s not a threat; they’re just mad they’re about to have a lot of egg on their face for running with this as hysterically as they did,” she added.

Miller describes himself as an investigative journalist and documentary filmmaker associated with “The America Happens Network.” He claims to have been involved with the Republican Party in Nevada since 2000 and even ran for office as a Republican in 2022. These affiliations, he argues, should dispel any notion of him being a threat to Trump or his supporters.

Legal Battle Ahead

As Miller prepares to sue the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for defamation, the case is set to shine a spotlight on the tensions between law enforcement and individuals claiming sovereign citizen status. Miller’s use of a handmade license plate and possession of multiple identification documents have raised questions about his affiliations with libertarian and anti-government groups.

The Secret Service has stated that the incident did not endanger Trump, and the investigation is ongoing. Miller is scheduled to appear in court on January 2, 2025, to face misdemeanor charges related to the incident. As the legal battle unfolds, it will likely continue to fuel discussions about the appropriate balance between security measures and individual rights at political rallies.