Authorities have apprehended an Arizona man, Manuel Tamayo-Torres, for allegedly issuing violent threats against President-elect Donald Trump and his family, as well as attempting to unlawfully purchase firearms. Tamayo-Torres, with a criminal history including a 2003 assault conviction in California and a restraining order in Arizona from his ex-wife, was prohibited from owning guns. Despite this, he tried to buy firearms at a Phoenix store on two occasions in November 2023, falsifying information on background check forms.
Further investigation revealed disturbing social media posts by Tamayo-Torres, where he accused an unnamed individual, believed to be Trump, of trafficking children and made racially charged threats. In one video, he brandished a rifle and made menacing statements towards the president-elect and his family. Photos from a Trump rally in Glendale were also found on his Facebook account, along with images of him holding firearms he was not allowed to possess.
Tamayo-Torres was arrested in Southern California and is set to face federal charges in Arizona. The case underscores the importance of enforcing firearm laws and monitoring individuals with violent tendencies. The swift action by law enforcement in apprehending Tamayo-Torres highlights their commitment to protecting public figures and maintaining public safety.
