Arizona prosecutor warns of consequences for unlawful acts ahead of Charlie Kirk memorial with Trump

GLENDALE, ARIZONA: Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has issued a strong warning ahead of Sunday’s memorial for Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

The event, expected to draw around 100,000 attendees, will feature President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. 

Rachel Mitchell urges civility and respect at memorial

The federal government has designated it a Level 1 Special Event, the same category as the Super Bowl, requiring extensive security support.

Mitchell released a statement on Friday urging the community to remain united and peaceful despite grief and political divides.

"This moment calls for Maricopa County to step up and show the nation—and the world—that we value dignity, civility, and the rule of law. We can be role models that even in times of grief and disagreement, our community is united in its commitment to free speech without violence or lawlessness," said Rachel Mitchell.

She stressed her office’s commitment to both mourners and peaceful demonstrators.

"Let me be clear: my office will defend the rights of those who come to mourn or protest peacefully. Anyone who chooses to break the law—through violence, destruction of property, or obstruction— will be held accountable," stated Rachel Mitchell.

"Let us honor Charlie Kirk's memory and the blessings of liberty not with division or disruption, but with peace and respect for others," Rachel Mitchell further stated.

Secret Service arrests armed man inside State Farm Stadium

Security concerns were highlighted Saturday when the US Secret Service announced that an armed man had entered the stadium with a knife and a firearm.

"The individual was approached by Secret Service and stated during the encounter that he was a member of law enforcement and that he was armed," the agency said in a statement, according to Fox News.

 "The individual is not a member of authorized law enforcement working the event and is currently in custody. The US Secret Service and local law enforcement are investigating the circumstances as to why he was at the location."

The Arizona Department of Public Safety confirmed that the man faces charges of impersonating an officer, a felony, and carrying a weapon in a restricted area, a misdemeanor.

Glendale police prepare for overflow crowds and traffic

Authorities expect an overflow gathering at Desert Diamond Arena, located near the stadium, where past rallies for Trump and former Vice President Kamala Harris have been held.

The Glendale Police Department asked attendees to prepare for congestion. "Plan ahead for parking & allow extra time to arrive at [State Farm Stadium]. Let's respect one another, be patient, & create a safe atmosphere," the department posted to X.

Earlier the police advised, "This Sunday, we anticipate a large influx of visitors for the event at @StateFarmStdm. Please be patient and expect delays in the area. Remember, NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING is allowed as it’s private property."

Police also stated they are "committed to ensuring a secure environment" for the large event.

Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated on September 10 during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. 

Sunday’s memorial is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of its kind in recent memory, uniting political leaders, supporters, and mourners in his honor.