Authorities in California have arrested a man who was spotted near a golf course owned by Donald Trump in the Los Angeles area, shortly before the president’s visit for a fundraising dinner at the property.
Investigators said that 38-year-old Jeanine John Taele was found carrying a handgun and illegal ammunition at Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, he “was seen walking around the golf course grounds, taking photos and videos, and appeared to be observing security planning activities.”
The arrest took place on Sunday afternoon.
Trump is currently visiting California to attend a Republican Party fundraising dinner that is scheduled to take place at the golf club next week.
Taele is being held in custody on charges of carrying a concealed firearm and possessing prohibited ammunition.
In a press release, the sheriff’s department said Taele was arrested after federal agents in plain clothes reported a suspicious person to local authorities.
When officers stopped him, they discovered that he was wanted by the El Segundo Police Department in connection with a robbery investigation. El Segundo is located about 25 kilometres north of Rancho Palos Verdes, a wealthy coastal area known for its scenic hills and cliffs.
Authorities later searched him and found a magazine containing 16 “hollow-point” rounds — ammunition designed to expand upon impact.
Meanwhile, inside his vehicle parked near the golf course, police discovered a loaded handgun and another magazine containing the same type of ammunition.
