Craig Melvin and Al Roker Obtain Restraining Order Against Intruder
Craig Melvin and Al Roker have been granted a restraining order against Andrew Truelove following his arrest on the Today show set.
Us Weekly confirms that a judge issued a protective order mandating Truelove, 41, to maintain distance from Melvin, 47, and Roker, 71.
TMZ reported that Truelove is prohibited from approaching Melvin or Roker at NBC or at their residences. He remains incarcerated with a $20,000 bail after being apprehended on Thursday, July 16, when he illegally entered the morning show’s studio in New York City.
Truelove was reportedly seeking Roker initially before lunging at Melvin and shouting a racial slur.
“There was a security incident this morning at the TODAY show studio. An individual entered an unauthorized area in a vestibule near Studio 1A,” NBC stated. “The person approached anchor Craig Melvin, who promptly notified security. The individual was detained and taken into custody by law enforcement without further incident. There were no altercations, and no one was harmed.”
The statement added, “TODAY is fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation. NBC and TODAY prioritize the safety and security of our employees, talent, staff, and guests. We are reviewing the incident along with our security protocols and remain dedicated to ensuring a safe environment for everyone at our studios.”
Several reports indicate that a security guard was dismissed following the incident. Truelove is currently facing multiple charges, including hate crime, criminal trespass, and harassment.
Melvin addressed the situation on social media Thursday, stating, “Hey everyone. I’ve heard from many of you over the past few hours. I’m doing just fine. Thank you for your concern. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning on @todayshow.”
He further elaborated during the Friday, July 17, episode of the NBC morning show, assuring viewers he was “safe and sound.”
“I want to take a moment to address an incident that occurred yesterday,” Melvin said. “You may have heard that an intruder entered an unauthorized area at Studio 1A. Thankfully, he was quickly apprehended and arrested.”
Melvin provided an update on the situation, stating, “We are fully cooperating with the NYPD as they investigate the matter, and we’re just very grateful that everyone is safe.”
Roker also commented on the incident through social media on Friday.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who reached out in the past 24 hours to check in on my brother, @craigmelvinnbc,” Roker posted on Instagram. “We are both OK.”
He concluded with, “Moments like these remind us to come together. You all, like Craig, said, ‘You come after one of us, you come after all of us.’ We’ll discuss it this morning on @todayshow.”
