Donald Trump: police reveal assault and drone offence arrests during state visit

Twelve arrests were made by police in Windsor during US President Donald Trump’s state visit to the royal town, Thames Valley Police has said.

Offences included four men suspected of ‘malicious communications’ over a projection displayed on Windsor Castle, while two other people were arrested on suspicion of assault.

Half of the arrests related to drone flights in breach of airspace restrictions for President Trump’s historic visit, the first time a US President has been invited to the UK for a second state visit.

Superintendent Andrew Cranidge, tactical commander for the police operation, said the arrests represented ‘an incredibly small minority’ of the public turnout for the event in Windsor.

Heightened security for President Trump’s visit saw the event take place away from the immediate public eye, as Thames Valley Police warned it was ‘prepared for protesters’.

Seven people were arrested on Tuesday (September 16), the day before the US leader’s visit.

These were: a 20-year-old man from Slough, a 37-year-old man from Aylesbury, and a 37-year-old man from Hounslow; all arrested on suspicion of drone flights in breach of restrictions.

A 36-year-old man from London, a 37-year-old man from Kent, a 50-year-old man from London, and a 60-year-old man from East Sussex were also arrested over the castle projection stunt.

Images of President Trump, sex offender Jeffery Epstein and Prince Andrew were displayed on one of Windsor Castle’s towers in Thames Street.

The men were arrested on suspicion of ‘malicious communications’ and have since been released on bail until December 12, while an investigation continues.

Two arrests were made for rule-breaking drone flights on the day of the state visit: A 36-year-old man from West Sussex and a 66-year-old man from Greenford.

A 61-year-old woman from Wiltshire was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and using threatening or abusive language likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

A 31-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and assault.

On Thursday, a 33-year-old man from Slough was arrested on suspicion of flying drones in breach of the airspace restrictions.

Superintendent Cranidge said: “The number of arrests represents an incredibly small minority of all those who were in Windsor during this event. 

“We are always honoured to police events of international significance and remain committed to both representing and serving our communities. 

“Our top priority was the safety and security of all involved, with minimal disruption or inconvenience to our communities. 

“This was all to ensure we supported residents, businesses and the wider community during this period, as well as keeping the town safe. 

“We will always work closely with businesses and partners to ensure events and visits in Windsor run smoothly and safely, with minimal disruption to the community. 

“Thank you for your patience and cooperation during our comprehensive security operation.”