A man who tried to assassinate Donald Trump at his Florida golf course attempted to harm himself with a pen after being found guilty. Ryan Routh, 59, conducted numerous visits to Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course before the incident, hiding in the bushes with a rifle as Trump’s group approached. He faced charges including attempted assassination, possessing a firearm for a violent crime, and assaulting a Secret Service agent. Following a swift trial, Routh was convicted on all counts and now faces a potential life sentence.
Upon hearing the verdict, Routh reportedly tried to harm himself with a pen but was restrained by US Marshals. His daughter, Sara Routh, reacted emotionally in the courtroom, expressing disbelief at the outcome. Prosecutors highlighted Routh’s extensive planning for the assassination attempt, which involved acquiring a military-grade weapon, monitoring Trump’s movements, and using multiple disposable phones.
The incident occurred shortly after Trump was shot in the ear at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, by Thomas Crooks, who was subsequently killed by Secret Service agents. In response to Routh’s conviction, Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the Justice Department’s commitment to combating political violence.
Routh, a construction worker without legal expertise, chose to represent himself in court, delivering a defense characterized as unfocused and erratic. He suggested resolving the case through a golf match between himself and Trump, with the winner determining the fate of the loser. Judge Aileen Cannon frequently admonished Routh for straying off-topic and disregarding courtroom protocol during the trial.
Routh’s unconventional behavior included delving into unrelated topics during his statements and attempting to ask irrelevant questions during jury selection. Despite his unconventional tactics and courtroom disruptions, Routh was ultimately convicted for his attempted assassination of Trump.