A woman was arrested on Monday night after approaching President Donald Trump’s residence, Mar-a-Lago, claiming she had an “urgent message” and informing Secret Service agents that firearms were in her car. The incident, reported by Newsweek, adds to a growing list of security breaches at the Palm Beach estate, which serves as both Trump’s home and a functioning private club that hosts regular events.
The woman, identified as 49-year-old Caroline Shaw, walked to the south gate of Mar-a-Lago and made her request to speak with Trump. Law enforcement immediately detained her and searched her vehicle. Shaw was arrested on two misdemeanor charges for having a suspended driver’s license and expired registration. She pleaded not guilty, and a judge ordered her to stay away from all Trump properties.
Palm Beach Police have requested a risk protection order against Shaw, which is still under review. The U.S. Secret Service confirmed its cooperation with local authorities and stated the event did not disrupt protective operations. They emphasized the seriousness of any security-related incident and expressed gratitude to Palm Beach Police for their swift response.
This incident follows another in which a man named Anthony Thomas Reyes attempted to illegally enter Mar-a-Lago, claiming he wanted to “spread the Gospel” and marry Trump’s granddaughter. Reyes had previously trespassed on the estate during the New Year’s holiday and was arrested again after scaling a fence and triggering security alarms.
Though Trump was in Washington, D.C., during the incidents, both cases highlight ongoing security concerns surrounding Mar-a-Lago’s semi-public status and continued function as a private social venue.