A Florida jury has convicted 59-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh on five federal charges, including attempted assassination of Donald Trump, assaulting a federal officer, and multiple firearms violations. The case stems from an incident in September 2024 near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, where authorities say Routh planned to carry out the attack.
During the trial, prosecutors outlined how Routh spent weeks preparing, conducting surveillance, and positioning himself with an SKS-style rifle. Although he never fired a shot, Secret Service agents intervened and prevented the attempt. Evidence also revealed his use of burner phones to avoid detection.
Routh, who chose to represent himself, shocked the courtroom when he tried to stab himself in the neck with a pen as the verdict was read. U.S. Marshals immediately restrained him, and he was given medical attention.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, where Routh faces the possibility of life in federal prison. The conviction is seen as a significant moment in addressing threats of political violence in the United States.