DPS Arrests Armed Individual Posing as Officer in Arizona

2025-09-21 04:41:50

(MENAFN) An armed man was detained at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, where a tribute for conservative activist Charlie Kirk is planned for Sunday, after he allegedly pretended to be a police officer, according to officials.

A news agency stated that 42-year-old Joshua Runkles was taken into custody by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS).

He faces accusations of bringing a firearm into a restricted location and impersonating law enforcement personnel.

According to DPS, Runkles was intercepted after showing “suspicious behavior” and it was confirmed that he is “not a law enforcement officer.”

Authorities noted that an inquiry is underway to identify his motive and presence at the stadium. Runkles was later freed on bond,” DPS declared in a statement.

The US Secret Service informed the news agency that its agents confronted an “individual who was observed exhibiting suspicious behavior” and who falsely asserted being an armed officer.

The agency added it is cooperating with local authorities to uncover the suspect’s reason for being at the site.

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