Ryan Routh has been found guilty in federal court of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf course. The verdict follows a dramatic trial that revealed how Routh planned and carried out the failed sniper style attack before being intercepted by Secret Service agents.
Prosecutors showed evidence that Routh traveled to Florida with a rifle and positioned himself near the Trump International Golf Club in 2024. A Secret Service agent noticed him and fired, forcing Routh to abandon the plan and flee the scene. Jurors agreed with prosecutors that the evidence proved intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
The guilty verdict covered all charges including attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon, and multiple firearms violations. During the trial Routh represented himself, often clashing with prosecutors and the judge, while trying to argue that the evidence was misrepresented.
Courtroom observers reported a shocking moment when Routh attempted to stab himself with a pen immediately after hearing the guilty verdict. Marshals restrained him, and he was taken into custody to await sentencing.
Routh now faces a potential life sentence when the court delivers punishment in December 2025. The verdict has been welcomed by officials who say it sends a strong signal against political violence at a time when threats and attacks on public figures have been increasing across the United States.
The conviction highlights growing concerns about the safety of political candidates, the pressures on law enforcement agencies like the Secret Service, and the need for stronger measures to protect democratic processes. As the nation heads into a contentious political season, the Ryan Routh case stands as a reminder of the dangers of extremism and the consequences of targeting public officials.
