Former United States President Donald Trump boarded his private plane in Florida and flew from there to New York, where he is expected to be booked and arraigned, as the nation's largest city beefed up security and warned potential agitators that it is "not a playground for your misplaced anger," news agency Associated Press (AP) reported on Monday.
Trump's journey from his Mar-a-Lago (his beachfront residence in Florida) club to his red, white, and blue Boeing 757 emblazoned with "TRUMP" in gold letters was broadcast live on national television, and he passed supporters waving banners and cheering him on, the report said.
He is facing unspecified charges in connection with a payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels by his lawyer prior to the 2016 presidential election.
In New York, Trump established a national profile in business and entertainment before becoming deeply unpopular when he entered politics.
His return to the city ushers in an unprecedented chapter in American history, with Trump becoming the first former president to face criminal charges while running for a third term in office. It is bringing together major legal, political, and cultural events in unprecedented ways.
According to AP, the former president intended to spend the night at Trump Tower before surrendering to authorities on Tuesday for booking and arraignment later in the day. So far, officials have not seen an influx of people into the city, as was the case in Washington in the days leading up to the January 6, 2021 insurgency.
Nonetheless, authorities warned that carrying a weapon in certain areas of the city, including near courthouses, is illegal.
"While some rabble-rousers may be considering visiting our city tomorrow, our message is clear and simple: control yourselves," said New York Mayor Eric Adams. "New York City is our home, not a venue for your misdirected rage. We are the safest large city in America because New York City adheres to the rule of law," he was quoted as saying by AP.
Although Trump Tower was open on Monday, authorities planned to close nearby streets as Trump came and went, and additional security was also in the works. They've taken steps to secure and close the courtroom floor where the former president is scheduled to appear for his arraignment on Tuesday.