Taylor Taranto Allegedly Visited Obama’s DC Neighborhood Following Trump Post, Claim Prosecutors

Man Arrested in Obama’s Neighborhood Live-Streamed After Sharing Trump’s Post with Obama’s Address

Federal prosecutors have revealed that a man arrested in former President Barack Obama’s Washington, DC, neighborhood last week began live-streaming in the area shortly after resharing a social media post from Donald Trump that included what Trump claimed was Obama’s address. The man, Taylor Taranto, has been detained pending his trial for charges related to the January 6, 2021, US Capitol attack. The prosecutors have also stated that Taranto made threats against House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Maryland Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin. Taranto and several others had entered an elementary school near Raskin’s home in June, with Taranto live-streaming the incident. He specifically chose the school due to its proximity to Raskin’s home and his dislike for Raskin’s opposition to Trump and the January 6 supporters.

Prosecutors argue that Taranto is a direct and serious threat to the public and multiple political figures. They believe that the risk he poses if released is high, with potentially catastrophic consequences. A detention hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Taranto’s lawyer has not yet commented on the case.

Taranto, who had an open warrant for his arrest related to the riot charges, was apprehended in Obama’s neighborhood last week with firearms after claiming to have a detonator on an internet livestream. Prosecutors revealed that Taranto made “ominous comments” referencing McCarthy in a video on June 28, stating that nothing can stop what’s coming. Law enforcement attempted to locate Taranto but were unsuccessful. The following day, Trump posted what he claimed was Obama’s address on the social media platform Truth Social, which Taranto then reposted. He also made threatening comments on Telegram, stating, “We got these losers surrounded! See you in hell, Podesta’s and Obama’s.”

After reposting the address, Taranto began live-streaming from his van and drove through Washington, DC’s Kalorama neighborhood. Secret Service officers started monitoring him immediately due to the restricted nature of the residential area. Taranto repeatedly referred to his actions as free speech, seemingly believing that invoking the First Amendment would absolve him of any trespassing charges. He also made remarks suggesting that others involved in the Capitol attack may face charges of treason.

As Taranto walked toward Rock Creek, he noticed Secret Service agents and attempted to flee but was apprehended and arrested. Two firearms, a Smith and Wesson M&P Shield, and a Ceska 9mm CZ Scorpion E3, were found in his van, along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition, a steering wheel lock, and a machete. Photos of the firearms recovered were included in the prosecutors’ memo. Additionally, signs, a mattress, and other items indicated that Taranto had been living in his van. More than a dozen other firearms registered to him remain at large.

Taranto’s actions raise concerns about the safety of political figures and the public. The incident highlights the ongoing threats and tensions surrounding the January 6 Capitol attack and its aftermath. The detention hearing will determine whether Taranto will remain in custody until his trial.

Original Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-07-06 06:00:00