In brief
Ryan Routh has been charged with attempting to assassinate President Trump while he played golf on September 15, 2024. Routh, who is representing himself, has begun presenting his defense in Fort Pierce, Florida, following a week of testimony from federal prosecutors. Witnesses, including a Secret Service agent, have recounted the dramatic events, highlighting the elaborate planning Routh allegedly undertook for the attack. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including assaulting a federal officer.
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — Ryan Routh texted his three adult children and his fiancée separately to tell them he loved them, according to cell phone records, shortly before authorities say he was spotted by a U.S. Secret Service agent, who identified Routh as the man who attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump at his Florida golf course.Later that same day, Routh called his fiancée from jail to discuss his arrest, with her responding that 'the whole world knows.' Routh is currently representing himself in a federal court after facing charges related to the assassination attempt and is expected to present his defense soon. Prosecutors, experienced in high-profile cases, concluded their argument after a week-long presentation involving 38 witnesses, arguing for life imprisonment for Routh.The prosecution has claimed Routh spent weeks planning the assassination attempt, allegedly aiming a rifle at Trump as he played golf on September 15, 2024. Routh has pleaded not guilty to various charges including attempted assassination and assault on a federal officer.His defense strategy appears minimal, aiming to call just three witnesses including an expert on firearms and two character witnesses. U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon has been overseeing the trial, allowing Routh to represent himself despite his precarious history, which includes previous arrests for armed confrontations and threats of violence. As the trial continues, the courtroom remains a focal point in a case that reflects larger issues of political violence and mental health, with Routh’s past and motivations being scrutinized by both the prosecution and defense.
