Ryan Routh, the man accused of plotting to assassinate President Donald Trump at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course in 2024, was found guilty Tuesday on all five federal charges against him.
The jury deliberated for about two hours before returning its verdict. The charges included attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime, assaulting a federal officer, possession of a firearm as a felon, and use of a gun with a defaced serial number. Routh faces a possible life sentence, with sentencing scheduled for December 18.
Courtroom Disruption
Shortly after the verdict was read, Routh attempted to harm himself with a pen while in the courtroom. Sources said the pen was designed not to cause serious injury, and he was left with only minor marks. Court security quickly intervened, and Routh was removed from the courtroom before later returning in restraints.
During the disruption, Routh’s daughter shouted support for her father and criticized the proceedings before also being escorted out.
Judge Aileen Cannon, who presided over the trial, acknowledged the disruption but thanked both parties and the defendant for their participation, noting the seriousness of the case.
Evidence and Testimony
Prosecutors argued that Routh had carefully planned the alleged attack. Evidence presented included testimony from dozens of witnesses, surveillance information, and physical exhibits such as a rifle and ammunition. They said Routh had purchased weapons and equipment illegally, conducted surveillance of Trump’s golf course, and used multiple burner phones to avoid detection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Browne told jurors that Routh made repeated trips to a vantage point near the golf course with the intent to carry out an assassination attempt. “The law punishes would-be assassins who did not succeed in killing their targets,” Browne said in his closing argument.
The defense, which Routh presented himself without formal legal training, argued that he lacked the intent and capacity to kill. Routh compared his thoughts about killing Trump to unrealistic fantasies, insisting that his presence with a firearm near the golf course did not mean he intended to act. He also called character witnesses who described him as nonviolent.
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Background
According to court documents, Routh was discovered near Trump’s golf course with a rifle in 2024 and was later arrested by local law enforcement. Prosecutors say he fled after being spotted by a Secret Service agent.
Throughout the trial, Judge Cannon intervened several times to ensure Routh’s arguments remained tied to the evidence.
Following the guilty verdict, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement saying the outcome underscored the Department of Justice’s commitment to addressing political violence.
