Ryan Routh Faces Sentencing in Trump Assassination Attempt: NPR
Ryan Routh is scheduled to face sentencing for his attempt to assassinate Donald Trump, a former presidential candidate, in a Florida courtroom. His actions occurred during Trump’s campaign for the presidency in 2024.
Background of the Case
Routh was arrested on September 15, 2024, and later convicted by a jury last fall. The prosecution argued for a life sentence, citing the severity of his planned attack. This incident took place at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, where Routh allegedly attempted to carry out a sniper attack.
Details of the Incident
Two months before Routh’s plot, an assassination attempt was made on Trump in Pennsylvania. In that case, a man named Thomas Crooks fired multiple shots, injuring Trump. Crooks was later shot and killed by a Secret Service agent.
On the day of Routh’s attempt, a Secret Service agent discovered him holding a semi-automatic rifle concealed in the tree line at Trump’s golf club. After confronting Routh, the agent fired at him. Routh fled the scene but was apprehended shortly thereafter.
Trial and Defense
The trial lasted two and a half weeks, with prosecutors detailing Routh’s activities leading up to the attack. They recorded his travel from North Carolina to Florida using cell phone data and license plate tracking. Routh had been living in his vehicle, scouting locations for the attack.
In contrast, Routh’s defense presented a brief case consisting of just three witnesses. After some disagreements with his federal public defenders, he represented himself during the trial. Routh claimed he did not possess the intent to kill and expressed that he was a peaceful person. The jury took only two hours to find him guilty on all charges.
Reactions and Sentencing Considerations
Following the announcement of the verdict, Routh attempted to stab himself with a pen in court. Federal marshals subdued him before he could injure himself. In subsequent court filings, he apologized for the trial’s disruptions and remarked on his actions during the verdict reading.
As sentencing approaches, Routh’s attorney has argued for leniency, citing Routh’s mental health issues and age, as he is currently 60 years old. The defense is requesting a reduced sentence of 27 years.
Future Proceedings
No additional witnesses or new evidence will be presented during the sentencing hearing. Only the attorneys and Routh are expected to speak. This hearing represents Routh’s final chance to express remorse and potentially soften the judge’s decision on his punishment.
- Arrest Date: September 15, 2024
- Conviction: Fall 2024
- Potential Sentence: Life in prison
- Age of Routh: 60 years
- Defense Request: 27-year sentence
