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A man was arrested at the Palm Beach International Airport after being found in possession of a fully loaded AR-15 rifle, several knives, and a small amount of cocaine.
The arrest, confirmed by the Palm Beach police, occurred on Wednesday morning when airport staff alerted the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office about suspicious behavior near a vehicle in a restricted parking area.
The agents found Michael Rodrigues, 41 years old, getting dressed outside a dark rental car.
When requesting the vehicle's contract, Rodrigues opened the glove compartment, where officers discovered a magazine full of ammunition for an AR-15 rifle.
A subsequent inspection revealed the weapon fully loaded and knives hidden under a blanket on the seat of the vehicle.
"This incident could have been significant. It could have cost the lives of many people. Fortunately, the airport staff and airport deputies acted appropriately, and we have arrived at this point today, with the suspect in custody," stated a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s office, emphasizing the quick and professional response of the agents on site.
Rodrigues was arrested without resistance and is being interrogated by detectives. Authorities confirmed that the suspect has an extensive criminal history that includes convictions for domestic violence by strangulation, robbery, possession, and trafficking of stolen property, among other serious offenses.
In addition to facing charges for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Rodrigues was also accused of trespassing into a secured area of the airport and possession of cocaine.
Rodrigues was transferred to the Palm Beach County jail while the investigations continue.
Florida leads in concealed carry licenses due to its large population and high demand for permits, with 186,435 license holders in Miami-Dade County.
Despite the fact that a law allowing the carrying of weapons without a permit was approved in 2023, many citizens prefer to obtain a license for reasons of safety and responsibility.
The law permitting carrying without a permit, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023, has sparked intense political debate.
While Republicans defend the right to carry arms, Democrats and safety activists highlight the risks, recalling tragedies such as the Parkland shootings and the Pulse nightclub. Despite the law, millions of people still choose to obtain licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Incident at Palm Beach Airport
What happened at Palm Beach International Airport?
A man was arrested in possession of a loaded AR-15 rifle, several knives, and a small amount of cocaine at Palm Beach International Airport. The individual, Michael Rodrigues, was apprehended after exhibiting suspicious behavior in a restricted area of the airport parking lot. The prompt intervention of the authorities prevented a potentially serious incident.
What is Michael Rodrigues' criminal record?
Michael Rodrigues has an extensive criminal record that includes convictions for domestic violence by strangulation, theft, and possession and trafficking of stolen property, among other serious offenses. This record increases the severity of the charges he currently faces for possession of weapons and drugs at the airport.
How does Florida respond to unlicensed gun possession?
Florida allows carrying weapons without a license starting in 2023, following the approval of a law by Governor Ron DeSantis. However, many citizens prefer to obtain licenses for reasons of safety and responsibility. The state leads in concealed carry licenses, with millions of residents opting for this permit despite the existing law.
What is the political stance in Florida regarding gun carry?
The gun policy in Florida has sparked intense debate between Republicans and Democrats. While Republicans defend the right to bear arms, Democrats and safety activists caution against the risks, recalling tragedies such as the Parkland shootings and the Pulse nightclub. Despite the law permitting carrying without a permit, most citizens still choose to obtain licenses.
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