Prosecutors have revealed that a man was arrested near former President Barack Obama’s neighborhood in Washington, D.C. last week, allegedly after former President Donald Trump shared what he claimed was Obama’s address on the social media platform Truth Social.
The suspect, identified as Taylor Taranto, 37, was found in possession of weapons in his van and is now facing multiple charges.
According to court filings, Taranto drove to the Kalorama neighborhood in Washington, D.C., where Obama’s residence is located, after Trump posted what he purported to be Obama’s address on Truth Social. Prosecutors allege that Taranto wrote on Telegram, a messaging app, “‘We got these losers surrounded! See you in hell, Podesta’s and Obama’s (sic).” He then proceeded to livestream from his van on his YouTube channel.
The court documents further reveal that Taranto discussed finding an entrance to Obama’s home using the sewer system. Due to previous threats made by Taranto and his claim that the van contained an explosive device, law enforcement deployed the FBI’s bomb squad technicians and the Metropolitan Police Department’s K9 officers.
Upon arresting Taranto, authorities discovered two firearms in his van, but 18 registered guns remain unaccounted for. The van also contained hundreds of rounds of ammunition, a steering wheel lock, and a machete. Taranto, who has no fixed address, had been difficult to apprehend earlier due to his transient lifestyle.
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Taranto had already attracted the attention of law enforcement prior to his arrest, as he had made various threats leading up to the incident. Prosecutors allege that he threatened to blow up the National Institute of Standards and Technology and issued warnings to Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Taranto also reportedly entered an elementary school near the Maryland home of Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin while making apparent threats against the congressman.
Two of Taranto’s social media accounts have been either deleted or had information removed since his arrest. Prosecutors express concern that if released, Taranto may attempt to destroy evidence.
It is important to note that Taranto also had an outstanding warrant related to charges connected to the Capitol riot. Axios reached out to representatives for Trump for comment, but there has been no immediate response.
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