Venezuelan National Arrested Near White House with Firearms

A Venezuelan national was arrested near the White House on Thursday evening, accused of threatening to kill former President Donald Trump. The apprehension of Ronny Yordrix Guanipa Chrinos followed the discovery of three firearms and ammunition in his vehicle, which was parked along Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), officers noticed suspicious behaviour from Chrinos in the parked car. Upon investigation, they learned that the vehicle had been reported stolen. Chrinos reportedly admitted to officers that he had heard voices instructing him to travel to Washington and kill Trump.

The officers conducted a search of the vehicle, recovering three firearms: an AR-15-style rifle, a Mac 10, and a Glock 43X, along with dozens of rounds of ammunition. The United States Secret Service arrested him at the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Chrinos is currently facing multiple charges, which include carrying a rifle outside of a residence or business, unlawful transportation of firearms, and possession of unregistered firearms and ammunition. He has also been charged with illegal possession of a pistol, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, theft, and receiving stolen property.

Following his arrest, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged a detainer against him with the U.S. Marshals Service, where he is now being held.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin commended the Secret Service for their swift action, stating, "Thanks to our brave Secret Service officers, this illegal alien with three firearms in his vehicle was arrested near the White House before he could harm anyone." He expressed concern that Chrinos was in the U.S. illegally and praised the Secret Service's continuous efforts to protect national leaders.

Sean Curran, Director of the Secret Service, highlighted that agents relied on their training to manage the potentially dangerous situation. He noted, "This is the latest example of Secret Service personnel relying on extensive training and experience to de-escalate a volatile situation that posed an imminent threat to our protectees and other Americans." Curran reaffirmed the agency's commitment to identifying and investigating threats against individuals under their protection.

Reports indicate that Chrinos entered the United States through Texas in March 2024, was apprehended by Border Patrol, and subsequently released into the country under the Biden administration. The incident reflects ongoing concerns about security in Washington, D.C., and the challenges faced by authorities in mitigating threats to public safety.