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Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio 'sad, angry' at Trump assassination attempt

The former sheriff exclusively spoke with 12News as he was leaving for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

PHOENIX — Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio told 12News he's emotional over the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in an exclusive interview.

"Sad and angry," Arpaio said. "I've been in law enforcement what 58 years. I've seen everything, but I'm a little emotional to this situation."

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A gunman, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, reportedly fired several rounds at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The former president said one bullet pierced his ear.

"Justice prevailed when the shooter was killed. That was immediate justice," Arpaio said.

Arpaio, who has attended several Trump rallies, said he thinks the Secret Service did a good job protecting Trump after the shooting, but added there should be an investigation into how the event was handled.

"I have a few questions. I'm not going to second guess the law enforcement," Arpaio said. "Let them look at it. The only thing I ask, be honest, no cover-ups. If there's a mistake made, do something about it."

Arpaio said his condolences go out to the victims of the shooting.

Arpaio spoke with 12News at Sky Harbor Airport as he was leaving for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee where he said he will be a guest of the Trump Administration.

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