Ryan Wesley Routh Gets Life for Attempting to Assassinate President Trump
Ryan Wesley Routh, aged 59, has received a life sentence plus an additional 84 months in federal prison for his attempted assassination of then-presidential candidate Donald J. Trump. The sentencing occurred in a Florida federal court, following Routh’s conviction on five counts, including attempted assassination and several firearms charges.
Conviction and Sentencing Details
U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon presided over the case in the Southern District of Florida. Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the seriousness of Routh’s actions, stating that it was an attack not only on President Trump but on the entire democratic system. Bondi praised the efforts of the National Security Division and the local prosecutors for bringing Routh to justice.
Statements from Officials
- Kash Patel, FBI Director: Described the assassination attempt as a despicable act against democracy.
- John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General: Asserted that the sentence rejects political violence and highlights the importance of civil discourse.
- Jason A. Reding Quiñones, U.S. Attorney: Noted that Routh’s actions represented a fundamental threat to the democratic process.
- Brett Skiles, Special Agent in Charge: Commended the extensive investigation that involved multiple law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Assassination Attempt
The jury’s verdict in September 2025 followed a two-week trial in Fort Pierce, Florida. Evidence demonstrated that Routh aimed an AK-47-style rifle at Secret Service Special Agent Robert Fercano while patrolling near Trump International Golf Club. Fercano, fearing for both his and Trump’s safety, fired at Routh, who then fled the scene.
Recovery of Evidence
Subsequent investigations revealed a Norinco SKS rifle, loaded with ammunition, concealed near the golf course. A camera was also found pointing at the sixth green where Trump was scheduled to play.
Apprehension of Routh
Witnesses reported seeing Routh enter a black Nissan Xterra after the incident. Law enforcement apprehended him on I-95, discovering multiple mobile phones and documents with international flight information in his vehicle. Further analysis showed Routh had accessed cell towers near both Trump International Golf Club and Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence numerous times in the weeks leading up to the assassination attempt.
Conclusion
This case highlights a significant threat to political safety and underscores the relentless efforts of U.S. law enforcement to prevent violence against public officials. Routh’s life sentence serves as a stern reminder that acts of political violence will not be tolerated in the United States.
