A federal jury convicted Ryan Wesley Routh on charges related to his failed attempt to kill President Donald Trump at a Florida golf course. The 59-year-old Hawaii resident faces potential life imprisonment after jurors found him guilty of attempted assassination, federal officer assault, and weapons violations. Routh planned the attack for September 15, 2024, at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. A Secret Service agent discovered Routh positioning a rifle from a concealed location near the course perimeter. The agent fired at Routh, who escaped but was captured after a witness reported his departure.
Federal agents recovered an SKS-style rifle, ammunition, body armor, and surveillance devices from the scene. Investigators also found multiple cellular phones and airport flight schedules for that date. Prosecutors presented a handwritten note where Routh acknowledged his assassination attempt and expressed regret for his failure. Attorney General Pamela Bondi described the conviction as evidence of the Justice Department's dedication to prosecuting political violence. The court will sentence Routh on December 18.
Federal agents recovered an SKS-style rifle, ammunition, body armor, and surveillance devices from the scene. Investigators also found multiple cellular phones and airport flight schedules for that date. Prosecutors presented a handwritten note where Routh acknowledged his assassination attempt and expressed regret for his failure. Attorney General Pamela Bondi described the conviction as evidence of the Justice Department's dedication to prosecuting political violence. The court will sentence Routh on December 18.
