St. Lucie County Sheriff’s detectives seized firearms and ammunition from the Fort Pierce home of Kendall Aaron Todd, 42, who is accused of making written threats against former President Donald Trump. The seizure occurred Monday at Todd’s residence in the 3500 block of Metzger Road, according to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office.
Todd faces charges of written threats to kill or harm Trump, stemming from threatening messages posted on social media platforms, including Facebook. He remains in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail, held on a bond of $500,000.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
During the execution of a search warrant, detectives recovered two handguns—an FN Herstal Belgium handgun and a Ruger .22 caliber handgun—in addition to more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers. Authorities also collected multiple electronic devices belonging to Todd, which may contain evidence pertinent to the investigation.
“We take all threats of violence extremely seriously,” said Sheriff Richard Del Toro. “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 the cooperation of the U.S. Secret Service, we intervened promptly to address the situation and ensure the safety of our President and our community.”
History of Mental Health Concerns
Court records indicate the Sheriff’s Office filed a risk protection order petition on March 11, seeking judicial permission to remove weapons from Todd’s possession. The petition cited Todd’s involvement in recent acts or threats of violence, potential mental health issues, and previous indications of suicidal ideation involving law enforcement.
Deputies reported that Todd had been treated under Florida’s Baker Act in December 2023, which allows involuntary mental health evaluations for individuals deemed threats to themselves or others. On March 7, deputies attempting to serve Todd with a court-ordered Marchman Act—used for individuals struggling with substance abuse—reported aggressive and erratic behavior from Todd, including vulgar statements shouted through a window.
Family Connection to Previous Tragedy
Kendall Todd is the brother of Tricia Todd, who was tragically murdered by her ex-husband, Steven Williams, in 2016. Williams was sentenced to 35 years in prison after leading authorities to Tricia Todd’s partial remains, which were discovered in a container filled with acid at the John C. and Mariana Jones/Hungryland Wildlife and Environmental Area in Martin and Palm Beach counties.
Assistant Public Defender Jace Hunter Lunn, assigned to represent Todd, was unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
For further details on Florida’s risk protection orders and mental health acts, visit the official information provided by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Answers to Common Questions About Florida’s Risk Protection Orders
What is a risk protection order in Florida?
A risk protection order allows law enforcement to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others. It was enacted in response to the Parkland school shooting in 2018.
How long can firearms be seized under a risk protection order?
Initially, firearms can be seized temporarily pending a court hearing. If the court finds sufficient cause, the order can extend firearm removal for up to one year.
What is the difference between the Baker Act and the Marchman Act?
The Baker Act addresses mental health crises, allowing involuntary mental health evaluations. The Marchman Act specifically targets individuals struggling with substance abuse, providing involuntary assessment and treatment.
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