The former sheriff spoke exclusively to 12News on his way to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
PHOENIX — Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said in an exclusive interview with 12 News that he is emotional about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
“I'm saddened and I'm angry,” Arpaio said. “I've been a police officer for 58 years. I've seen it all, but I'm a little emotional about this.”
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According to reports, the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, fired several shots at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The former president said one bullet pierced his ear.
“Justice prevailed when the shooter was killed. It was instant justice,” Arpaio said.
Arpaio, who has attended several Trump rallies, said he thought the Secret Service did a good job protecting Trump after the shooting, but added that the way the rallies were run needed to be investigated.
“I have some questions. I'm not going to doubt what the police have to say,” Arpaio said. “Let them investigate. All I ask is that you be honest and don't cover it up. If there was a mistake, do something about it.”
Arpaio said he offered his condolences to the victims of the shooting.
Arpaio spoke to 12 News at Sky Harbor Airport on his way to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and said he would be a guest of the Trump administration.
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