St. Lucie County Sheriff’s detectives seized two guns and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition from the home of Kendall Aaron Todd in Fort Pierce on Monday. Todd, 42, faces charges for allegedly making written threats against former President Donald Trump, according to a sheriff’s office press release issued Friday.
The search warrant executed at Todd’s residence in the 3500 block of Metzger Road uncovered an FN Herstal Belgium handgun, a Ruger .22 caliber handgun, and significant ammunition quantities. Detectives also collected multiple electronic devices potentially relevant to the ongoing investigation.
Details of the Investigation and Arrest
Todd was arrested on Monday and charged with one count of written threats to kill or harm President Trump. He is currently held at the St. Lucie County Jail with a bond set at $500,000. Sheriff Richard Del Toro stated the threats were made via social media platforms, including Facebook.
“We take all threats of violence extremely seriously,” Sheriff Del Toro emphasized. “The discovery of firearms and ammunition in connection with threats made against President Trump is deeply concerning. Thanks to the swift action of our SWAT team and cooperation with the U.S. Secret Service, we intervened promptly to address the situation and ensure the safety of our President and community.”
Background and Mental Health Concerns
Court documents reveal that on March 11, the Sheriff’s Office filed a risk protection order petition to remove weapons from Todd’s possession. The petition cited Todd’s recent threats of violence, potential mental health issues, and previous treatment under Florida’s Baker Act in December 2023.
Deputies noted that Todd previously exhibited “suicide by cop” ideations. Furthermore, when deputies attempted to serve Todd with a court-ordered Marchman Act on March 7, he reportedly responded aggressively and erratically, yelling vulgar statements from inside his home.
Connection to Previous High-Profile Case
Todd is the brother of Tricia Todd, who was tragically murdered by her ex-husband Steven Williams in 2016. Williams is currently serving a 35-year prison sentence after leading authorities to Tricia Todd’s remains, concealed in a container filled with acid at the John C. and Mariana Jones/Hungryland Wildlife and Environmental Area.
Florida’s Red Flag Law Explained
Florida’s risk protection orders, also known as “red flag” laws, were enacted in March 2018 following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. These orders allow law enforcement agencies to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who exhibit warning signs of potential violence, balancing public safety with constitutional rights.
Todd’s legal representation, Assistant Public Defender Jace Hunter Lunn, was unavailable for comment on Friday.
For additional information on Florida’s risk protection orders, visit the official page provided by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Answers to Common Questions About Florida’s Red Flag Law
What is Florida’s Red Flag Law?
Florida’s red flag law allows law enforcement to petition courts to temporarily seize firearms from individuals who pose a significant risk of violence. It was enacted in response to the Parkland school shooting in 2018.
How long can firearms be seized under this law?
Initially, firearms can be seized for up to 14 days. After a court hearing, the seizure can be extended for up to one year if deemed necessary for public safety.
Can individuals contest a risk protection order?
Yes, individuals have the right to contest the order at a court hearing. They can present evidence and testimony to argue against the continuation of the firearm seizure.
Port St Lucie Talks
