Authorities in Cochise County, Arizona, have arrested 66-year-old Ronald Lee Syvrud after he allegedly made death threats against former President Donald Trump over the past two weeks. The threats were posted on social media just as Trump visited the county on Thursday to tour the US-Mexico border.
Syvrud, a resident of Cochise County, has a history of legal issues, including warrants in both Wisconsin and Arizona. He is wanted for failing to register as a sex offender, felony hit and run charges, and driving under the influence.
The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Syvrud’s arrest on Thursday afternoon within the county lines. Authorities stated that the arrest occurred without incident.
Trump’s visit to Cochise County comes shortly after a previous assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he was grazed by a bullet. During his visit, Trump blamed Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris for allegedly allowing illegal immigration into the US.
In response to a question from the press about the search for Syvrud, Trump replied, “No, I have not heard that, but I am not that surprised and the reason is because I want to do things that are very bad for the bad guys.”
This is not the first threat made against a political figure this election cycle. Earlier this month, a 66-year-old Virginia man was arrested for making threats against Vice President Kamala Harris and other public officials.
Syvrud’s capture marks the successful conclusion of an investigation into the death threats, highlighting the ongoing risks that political figures face in today’s polarized climate.