A livestreamer identified as a MAGA supporter was arrested at Donald Trump's Great American State Fair on Thursday afternoon, accused of lewd and indecent acts. The man, identified as 54-year-old Gian Rachtelli, was charged after multiple witnesses reported observing him engage in sexual behavior during a Cirque Mechanics performance.
According to a US Park Police report, officers were dispatched to the National Mall around 3:50 p.m. following reports from witnesses who had alerted another law enforcement agency working the fair. Upon arrival, officers found Rachtelli being detained by other officers. Three individuals independently provided statements to police detailing Rachtelli's alleged actions.
One witness stated they observed Rachtelli with his hand in his pants during the performance, appearing to be masturbating. Another witness reported being approached by a concerned female acrobat performer who had noticed Rachtelli making lewd gestures and making her and other female performers uncomfortable. A third witness corroborated the account, describing Rachtelli vaping, filming performers, and then placing his hand in his pants and moving it back and forth, consistent with self-pleasure.
Based on these statements, officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Rachtelli for lewd, indecent, or obscene acts. Police body camera footage captured the incident, though the report indicates it had not yet been reviewed by the responding officer at the time of completion. Rachtelli's livestream reportedly ended abruptly as police approached.
Rachtelli has been identified online by supporters as a MAGA livestreamer known as "Manny." Following his arrest, supporters rallied on social media, disputing the allegations and claiming his detention was wrongful and an attempt to silence him due to his political views. The Daily Mail has reached out to Rachtelli for comment.
The incident marks the latest controversy for the Great American State Fair, an event organized as part of America's 250th anniversary celebrations. The fair has faced criticism for performer cancellations, including Martina McBride and Young MC, who withdrew after learning of the event's ties to the Trump administration. President Trump headlined the opening ceremony after much of the original entertainment lineup dissolved. Attendees have also voiced complaints about high food prices and sparse crowds, with some social media users sharing photographs that depicted low attendance and scaled-back attractions. A Washington D.C. Councilmember shared a critical review, noting the absence of traditional fair elements like funnel cakes and corn dogs. The fair is scheduled to run through July 10.