A self-proclaimed MAGA supporter has filed a new federal lawsuit, alleging he was falsely accused of being a would-be assassin at a political rally. The man, Vem Miller, is seeking $100 million in damages in his defamation case against a county sheriff and other officials. He argues that he was wrongfully arrested and labeled a “lunatic” and an “attempted murderer” despite never making any threats.
Miller was arrested last October at a rally in California after authorities discovered two loaded firearms in his vehicle. Law enforcement officials stated at the time that they believed they had prevented an assassination attempt. However, Miller insists he never expressed any intent to harm anyone and was unfairly targeted. His lawsuit alleges that officials made defamatory statements about him to advance their own political careers.
Miller initially filed a lawsuit in Nevada but dismissed it after learning that California law required the case to be filed there. His new complaint, filed in the Central District of California, contends that officials falsely associated him with extremist groups and exaggerated the nature of his arrest.
According to Miller, he was attempting to enter a parking lot near the rally when he informed a deputy that he had two firearms in his vehicle. He intended to leave them in the car but was immediately detained and handcuffed. Miller claims officers then conducted an illegal search of his vehicle, seizing personal documents and other belongings.
In his lawsuit, Miller argues that his rights were violated and that he suffered significant harm as a result of the accusations. He faces misdemeanor charges for possession of a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine, to which he has pleaded not guilty. He contends that the allegations have led to serious personal and professional consequences, including threats against him and his family. He claims his ex-wife has used the accusations to restrict his access to his children, and that his parents’ home was raided by law enforcement.
Miller maintains that his arrest was politically motivated, asserting that officials used the incident to gain personal and professional advantage. He believes that the statements made against him have damaged his reputation and placed his safety at risk.
He has also spoken publicly about the impact of the accusations, saying they have forced him into hiding and caused emotional distress for his family. Despite the challenges, he continues to assert his innocence and seeks to clear his name through legal action.