California police probe if fatal attack on man outside his Trump-themed home had political motive

The suspect, who is being detained without bail, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, elder abuse, making criminal threats and battery. He pleaded not guilty in court.

Butler entered his plea before Sheron’s death and charges against him could now be amended.

Escondido police said they had responded to a report of an assault just after 14:00 local time on 20 May in the city, located 100 miles (160km) south of Los Angeles.

Officers found Sheron “suffering from significant injuries”, as well as the unnamed person who intervened and was injured.

Sheron was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and died on 24 May.

His cause and manner of death are pending determination by the medical examiner.