By Darren Smith, Weekend Blogger
Tyler pleaded guilty in 2009 to Felony Communication with a Minor for Immoral Purposes and to Theft in the First Degree. As a convicted felon, he is under Washington law prohibited from possessing firearms. He also is required to register as a sex offender.
Tyler recently appeared on the National Geographic reality show Doomsday Preppers in November of 2013 where he proclaimed his survivalist prowess and that he would engage in “marauding” by robbing people of high powered rifles and their provisions claiming that he would take it from his neighbors by force.” He was also alleged to have stated on the show: “We’re not in it to stockpile. We’re in it to take what you have and there’s nothing you can do to stop us. We are your worst nightmare, and we are coming.”
Among other bizarre claims he made he stated he also said he had a map of places he can rob and studied survivalist medicine, including how to perform a cesarean section on his wife. During the show he loaded a firearm and began shooting as well testing a homemade bullet-proof suit by having his cousin shoot chest with a shotgun.
Apparently this bravado caught the concern of many who contacted the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office that has been investigating Tyler since his appearance. His neighbors were also worried about his activities and spoke with reporters and the sheriff’s office.
National Geographic released a statement that read: “We are aware of the arrest, and have decided not to air this episode until all legal matters are sorted out.”
Deputies contacted Tyler at his residence and arrested him on probable cause for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender. Reports indicate he will be also charged with two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in the Second Degree, a Class C Felony carrying a potential five year prison sentence.
Reports are that there might be an additional appearance for Tyler, this time in U.S. District Court. Federal law enforcement is looking also into possible violations of federal law.
Sources:
KING5 News
The News Tribune
National Geographic Channel
RCW 9.68a.090
RCW 9.41.040(2)(a)
Darren Smith, Weekend Blogger
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