The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Said Illegal Firearms and Ammunition Were Found in His Car, and He Faces Weapons-related Charges

Jeanine John Taele, a 38-year-old from Downey, California, was arrested Sunday after FBI agents observed him allegedly photographing and recording security measures at Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, days before President Donald Trump was set to attend a Republican National Committee fundraiser. The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department said illegal firearms and ammunition were found in his car, and he faces weapons-related charges. Captain Calvin Mah of the LASD Major Crimes Bureau told Newsweek, "There's a lot of what ifs at this point, adding that authorities are analyzing a notebook and social media profiles linked to Taele.

Mah dismissed online speculation that Taele is transgender, stating he is a biological male. Taele was also wanted in connection with a robbery investigation by the El Segundo police, and authorities executed a search warrant at his residence, uncovering firearms, ammunition, body armor, and notebooks with "concerning statements, per CNN. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli posted on X that the investigation is active, with his office and federal partners reviewing evidence. The LASD said there is currently "no credible threat" to the community.