Crime
38-Year-Old Jeanine John Taele Arrested Outside Trump National Golf Club Before President Trump’s Visit in Rancho Verdes
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, Calif. — A heavily armed man was arrested near Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes ahead of President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to Southern California, prompting a multi-agency investigation involving local law enforcement, the U.S. Secret Service, and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Authorities identified the suspect as 38-year-old Jeanine John Taele, who also goes by “Johnny.”
Investigators said Taele, a Downey resident and military veteran, was taken into custody after allegedly being found on or near the golf club property while armed and documenting security preparations before the president’s arrival.
President Trump arrived in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening aboard Air Force One for a Republican National Committee fundraising event at Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Officials disclosed that Taele had been arrested several days earlier after security personnel observed suspicious activity at the property. Investigators allege the suspect had been photographing security measures and lingering around the golf club before Trump’s visit.
Law enforcement arrested Taele on charges of carrying a concealed firearm and possessing prohibited ammunition.
According to investigators, a subsequent search uncovered an extensive cache of weapons and tactical equipment allegedly connected to the suspect.
Authorities reported recovering:
An illegally modified AR-style rifle
A .45-caliber pistol
Body armor
High-capacity magazines
Large quantities of rifle and handgun ammunition
Radio communication devices
Notebooks containing what investigators described as “concerning statements”
The evidence prompted additional review by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are continuing to examine the suspect’s background, motives, and the contents of the recovered notebooks.
Despite the significant number of weapons recovered, officials said investigators have not identified a credible threat to the public at this time.
Law enforcement has not publicly stated whether Taele specifically intended to target President Trump, and investigators continue working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Following the arrest, President Trump safely arrived in Los Angeles and proceeded to attend the scheduled Republican National Committee fundraising event at Trump National Golf Club.
Security operations surrounding the president’s visit remained in place, and officials reported no disruption to the event.
The investigation remains active as federal and local authorities continue reviewing evidence recovered from the suspect, including electronic devices, weapons, and written materials.
Officials have not announced any additional charges, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
TAUNTON, Mass. — One person was killed and seven others were injured in an overnight shooting at a house party in Taunton, Massachusetts, authorities said.
The shooting happened at approximately 12:35 a.m. Sunday at a residence in the 261 Weir Street area. Taunton police officers responded after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots.
When officers arrived, they found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. Investigators were also informed that additional victims had already been transported to area hospitals for medical treatment.
Authorities ultimately identified eight shooting victims, all of whom were reportedly in their early 20s.
One of the victims, 22-year-old Zirovick Depina of Brockton, was pronounced dead early Sunday morning, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Of the seven surviving victims, one remains in serious but stable condition, while the others suffered injuries that were considered non-life-threatening. Their identities have not been publicly released.
The shooting occurred during a gathering at the residence. Images from the scene showed a tent and tables in the yard, along with white balloons and what appeared to be a photo backdrop near a garage.
A neighbor told authorities that large gatherings and loud parties had reportedly been common at the residence.
The home is located about a mile from the Taunton Police Department headquarters. The neighbor expressed concern about the shooting occurring in the area, particularly given the late-night activity.
The investigation is being conducted by Taunton Police, Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, and other investigative units. Detectives are working to determine what led to the gunfire and identify those responsible.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Taunton police or investigators with the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information is expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.