Local & Community
Defamation Lawsuit Filed Against Sheriff Bianco
A Las Vegas man has filed a $100 million lawsuit against Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, claiming defamation and the violation of his constitutional rights. Vem Miller, the plaintiff, was arrested on October 12, 2023, during a checkpoint near President Donald Trump’s rally at the Indio Polo Grounds here in the valley. At the time, authorities found him in possession of a shotgun, a loaded handgun, and a high-capacity magazine.
The center of the lawsuit revolves around statements made by Sheriff Bianco during a press conference the day after Miller's arrest. Bianco suggested that Miller may have been involved in a plot to assassinate President Trump, stating, "If you're asking me right now, I probably did have deputies that prevented the third assassination attempt." These comments, according to Miller’s attorney, were baseless, defamatory, and led to significant public backlash.
Miller's attorney argues that Bianco's public statements not only tarnished Miller’s reputation but also resulted in threats against Miller and his family. The lawsuit alleges that Miller’s civil rights were violated, citing incidents such as his forced medical examination, which was done after he explicitly denied consent, a clear violation of the Fourth Amendment.
Miller, who claims that the Sheriff's statements have caused irreparable harm, including constant harassment and threats, stated, "Now I face myself with a situation where it’s a no end situation where I’m being attacked by both sides." The lawsuit also highlights Miller's First Amendment rights being infringed upon, as he was allegedly restricted from attending a political rally.
Miller claims that the effects of the public defamation continue to harm his life daily, with messages and texts from individuals suggesting further threats against him and his family. He contends that the media exposure he’s received, fueled by Bianco’s comments, has intruded on his privacy in ways he never anticipated.
NBC Palm Springs has reached out to Sheriff Chad Bianco to make any statements. He has not yet made any remarks. As the case develops tune into NBC Palm Springs for any additional updates.
By: NBC Palm Springs
March 11, 2025
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