A man suspected of an apparent assassination attempt targeting former President Donald Trump has been charged with federal gun crimes. Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, appeared in federal court in West Palm Beach, facing charges of possessing a firearm despite a prior felony conviction and possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number. The investigation is ongoing, and more serious charges may be brought as prosecutors seek an indictment from a grand jury.
Routh, who was arrested after authorities spotted a firearm on the golf course where Trump was playing, appeared in court wearing a blue jumpsuit and smiled as he spoke with a public defender. Prosecutors requested that he remain in custody as a flight risk, and a federal magistrate scheduled additional hearings for later this month.
While authorities have not disclosed a specific motive, Routh's online presence revealed shifting political views and intense outrage about world events. In a self-published book, he made controversial statements about Trump and expressed support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
Court records show that Routh has a history of felony convictions, including charges of possessing stolen goods in 2002. During his court appearance, Routh stated his income and lack of savings, mentioning that he has minimal assets and supports his 25-year-old son.
The incident on the golf course involved Secret Service agents noticing a rifle aimed in Trump's direction. Routh dropped the firearm and fled in an SUV, leaving behind various items including an aiming scope and a camera. He was apprehended by law enforcement in a neighboring county.
This marks the second apparent assassination attempt on Trump in recent months, following a previous incident where a bullet grazed his ear during a rally in Pennsylvania. The investigation into Routh's actions continues as authorities work to determine the full extent of his intentions.
