Ryan Routh, the suspect accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump, is now facing additional state charges in Florida, including attempted first-degree murder and terrorism. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the charges, indicating they were made possible after state officials received cooperation from the federal government, which had previously claimed jurisdiction over the case.
The incident in question occurred on September 15, when Routh allegedly set up a sniper hideout near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach. Prosecutors claim that he was armed with a military-grade SKS rifle and was prepared to shoot Trump as he arrived for a round of golf. Routh was reportedly spotted by Secret Service agents before he could execute his plan, leading to a confrontation that resulted in gunfire. Routh fled the scene, abandoning his weapon, and was arrested later that day.
In federal court, Routh has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including attempted assassination of a presidential candidate and firearm-related offenses. His defense team has raised concerns regarding the methods used by law enforcement during witness interviews, alleging that they were unduly suggestive.
The recent state charges come after Governor Ron DeSantis signed an executive order to enable state agencies to pursue the case more vigorously, following frustrations with the Biden administration's handling of the investigation. Uthmeier expressed his belief in the need for a justice system that operates independently of political influences and noted that the current federal leadership has been more cooperative.
Routh's trial is set to begin on September 8, and further evidence is expected to be made public in the lead-up to the proceedings.