Armed Man Was Attending, Not Planning to ‘Harm’ Gay Pride Parade, Say Police

Santa Monica police say they misspoke when citing suspect’s supposed target

james howell la pride
Santa Monica Police Department

James Howell, the man who was arrested for carrying a large arsenal of weapons, did not intend to “harm” attendees at the West Hollywood gay pride parade, the Santa Monica police said Sunday reversing an earlier statement.

The “harm” statement was inaccurate, said Santa Monica Police Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks — the source that originated the statement.

Instead, Howell said he merely wanted to attend the event.

The 20-year-old Indiana native still faces state charges of weapons possession. Three assault rifles, ammo, and chemicals were all found in his car.

Police and FBI investigators are still trying to figure out why he had such an arsenal.

Santa Monica police tell TheWrap that federal weapons charges will likely be added in the next day.

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