Jeanine John Taele faces new weapons charges as details of ‘suspicious’ behavior ahead of president’s visit emerge
A California man who was arrested at Donald Trump’s Los Angeles-area golf course ahead of a presidential visit is facing more charges, as authorities released new details about the investigation.
Authorities say federal agents first observed 38-year-old Jeanine John Taele near the golf grounds in Rancho Palos Verdes on 31 July, wearing an earpiece and capturing photographs and videos of security agents assessing the property.
Taele returned on 2 August, authorities say, two days before Trump was scheduled to visit the resort for a fundraising dinner with the Republican National Committee (RNC). Taele approached federal agents and said he was employed by the state department and was there for a security detail.
After detaining Taele for “suspicious” behavior, Los Angeles county sheriff’s deputies found a loaded magazine in his pocket. In his pickup truck, which was parked at the golf club, deputies found a loaded 9mm pistol, binoculars and a badge labeled “security protection agent”, authorities have said.
