GLENDALE, Ariz. — A man was taken into custody Saturday at State Farm Stadium, just one day before the high-security memorial service for Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
Authorities say the man, identified as Joshua Runkles, was found carrying a firearm, a knife, and what officials described as “inactive law enforcement credentials.” It remains unclear whether those credentials were expired, revoked, or belonged to a previous law enforcement affiliation.
Runkles reportedly claimed he was providing private security and was affiliated with law enforcement. Officials quickly confirmed he was not part of the credentialed team assigned to the event.
He was arrested and charged with impersonating a peace officer — a felony — and carrying a weapon into a prohibited area, a misdemeanor.
The memorial service, set for Sunday, has been designated a SEAR Level 1 event by federal authorities — the highest security tier, typically reserved for the Super Bowl or presidential inaugurations. President Trump, Vice President Vance, and members of the Cabinet are expected to attend.
Crowds of up to 100,000 are expected at the memorial.
As The Hill reports:
Federal authorities said Friday that they are tracking “several threats of unknown credibility” against people planning to attend the service.
Utah authorities are seeking the death penalty against Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old charged in the fatal shooting of Kirk, who was a staunch Trump ally. Robinson turned himself in a day after the shooting at Utah Valley University.
The incident has sparked concerns about the rise of political violence and the protection of First Amendment rights, including freedom of speech online.
Saturday’s encounter has raised another pressing question: how did someone with outdated or inactive credentials manage to get so close to a high-security venue?
READ NEXT: Mayor’s Harsh Words Leave Christian Resident Reeling — Video Speaks Volumes
I understand their question. My question is why release him now? Why not release him after the memorial service? What was the bond?