More threats: Authorities in Arizona arrest a man who planned to attack Trump

On Thursday, authorities in Arizona arrested a 66-year-old man who allegedly threatened to kill ex-president Donald Trump before a local campaign event.

The Cochise County Sheriff's Office reported that Ronald Lee Syvrud was arrested around 2:30 p.m. (local time) pursuant to several outstanding warrants.

Threats and legal history

According to the Sheriff's Office, Syvrud posted several threats directed at Trump on social media over a two-day period. Carol Capas, the county's public information officer, explained that these threats prompted authorities to act quickly to ensure the safety of the former president and the planned event.

In addition to recent charges of death threats, Syvrud has a history of legal troubles. He faces warrants in Wisconsin for a DUI and failure to appear in court, as well as hit-and-run charges and failure to register as a sex offender in Graham County, Arizona. He is also listed on the Wisconsin Department of Corrections sex offender registry following a conviction for "second-degree sexual assault of a minor."

The arrest of Syvrud comes at a crucial time for the Trump campaign, which has faced security threats on several occasions. This incident comes on the heels of an assassination attempt last month during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Reaction from the former president

During a press conference, Trump stated that he was not aware of the arrest in Arizona, but that he is prepared to take the risks involved in his campaign. "I haven't heard about it. They probably want to keep it from me," Trump commented, adding that he will continue his work despite the danger.

Investigation and collaboration with agencies

The U.S. Secret Service has confirmed that it is closely following Syvrud's case and collaborating with the Cochise County Sheriff's Office. Although no links have been found between this incident and the attempted murder in Pennsylvania, local, state and federal agencies continue to investigate.

Another incident in North Carolina

During a recent rally in Asheboro, North Carolina, another concerning incident took place. Robert Castona Jr., a 79-year-old man, was arrested after being charged with violating North Carolina General Statute 14-277.2, which prohibits carrying weapons at parades, rallies and similar events.

Castona was issued a summons and released pending his court hearing, scheduled for Sept. 16.