Ryan Routh was found guilty on September 23, 2025, of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump at a Florida golf course in September 2024. After a jury deliberated for approximately two hours, Routh was convicted on multiple charges, including attempted assassination, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, and assaulting a federal officer. Following the verdict, Routh attempted to stab himself with a pen in the courtroom, prompting immediate intervention by law enforcement.
His daughter, Sara Routh, expressed her distress during the incident, claiming the legal proceedings were unfair and asserting her father's innocence. Routh, who had chosen to represent himself in court, did not testify during the trial but argued in his defense that he did not intend to harm anyone, as he did not pull the trigger during the incident.
The confrontation occurred when Routh allegedly aimed a rifle at Trump while he played golf, leading to a response from Secret Service agents. They testified that Routh pointed the weapon at an agent before fleeing the scene without firing. Routh was apprehended shortly after, aided by a witness who observed him fleeing.
Routh's sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2025, and he faces a potential life sentence. His criminal history includes previous arrests for various offenses, including illegal possession of firearms and attempted recruitment of soldiers during conflicts. Prosecutors emphasized the severity of the crime, with officials stating that the verdict underscores a commitment to addressing political violence.