On August 21, 2024, two individuals were arrested following a rally held by former President Donald Trump in Asheboro, North Carolina. The incident occurred after the rally had concluded and attendees were dispersing from the event, which drew a substantial crowd as Trump campaigned in the battleground state.
Authorities reported that around 4:30 PM, local police were alerted to suspicious activity near the event venue. Officers responding to the scene discovered weapons in the possession of two men, sparking immediate concern given the heightened security surrounding Trump’s rallies. The individuals, whose identities have not been released, were taken into custody without incident.
At least one arrest made and weapons removed from someone's car following former President Trump's rally in Asheboro, NC. More details as we get them.
Video from our affiliate @WNCN pic.twitter.com/qGxawqEQ45
— Robert Sherman (@RobertShermanTV) August 21, 2024
The Asheboro Police Department revealed that the weapons were openly displayed, which is a significant violation of the strict security protocols in place during such high-profile events. The incident occurred in a parking lot near the rally site, where both suspects were found with firearms and other weaponry. No threats were made against the former president or the rallygoers, but the presence of the weapons in close proximity to the rally raised alarms.
This incident follows a series of heightened security measures around Trump’s campaign events, particularly after a recent assassination attempt in another state earlier this summer. The police emphasized that, while North Carolina is an open-carry state, the circumstances surrounding this incident led to the arrests under suspicion of intent to cause harm or disrupt the event.
🚨 TRUMP RALLY WITNESS DETAINMENT PHOTOS 🚨
Taken on 07/13/24 at the main Farm Show Building. These are just some of the many pictures and recordings made of all us witnesses pic.twitter.com/Otb11BpekS
— Dave (@realDJStew724) August 23, 2024
Trump, who was joined by Senator JD Vance at the rally, did not address the arrests during his speech, which focused on his policy proposals and criticism of the Biden administration. The rally, held at the North Carolina Aviation Museum, was part of Trump's ongoing efforts to rally support in key swing states ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
Local officials praised the quick response of law enforcement, which ensured the safety of the rally attendees. The Asheboro Police Department has not released further details on the charges the two men will face but confirmed that an investigation is ongoing to determine if there were any connections to extremist groups or if the incident was an isolated act.
This arrest adds to the growing tension surrounding political events in the current polarized climate, where security concerns have become paramount. The presence of weapons at political rallies, even in states with lenient gun laws, continues to be a point of contention and concern for law enforcement and event organizers.
As the investigation continues, the community of Asheboro, a small city in central North Carolina, remains on alert. Trump’s rallies, known for drawing large and enthusiastic crowds, often bring with them a significant law enforcement presence, a reality underscored by this latest incident.
