WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Ryan Wesley Routh, a 58-year-old man accused of plotting to assassinate Donald Trump at a Florida golf course, was indicted Tuesday on attempted assassination charges. Initially facing firearms offenses, Routh now faces a five-count indictment as the Justice Department alleges he meticulously planned to kill the former president while Trump played at his West Palm Beach golf course.
Prosecutors claim Routh aimed a rifle through the shrubbery near the course and left behind a note outlining his intentions. A Secret Service agent thwarted the plot when they spotted Routh, who fled the scene. He was later arrested and now faces charges including attempted assassination, assaulting a federal officer, and firearms violations.
Routh’s case is being handled by Judge Aileen Cannon, known for overseeing previous cases involving Trump. If convicted, Routh could face life in prison.