A suspect behind the second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Florida has been uncovered to have engaged in extensive stalking of Mar-a-Lago and the ex-president's golf course in West Palm Beach. The individual, identified as Ryan Routh, faces federal charges for possessing a firearm with a scratched-out serial number and for illegal possession of a gun as a felon.
During a court hearing, it was disclosed that Routh had been under surveillance for weeks and was potentially planning to flee to Mexico. A document from the Justice Department revealed that one of Routh's cell phones contained a Google search on traveling from Palm Beach County to Mexico. Additionally, cell site records indicated that Routh's phone had accessed towers near Trump International Golf Club and Mar-a-Lago multiple times between August and September.
Authorities discovered incriminating items in Routh's possession, including 12 pairs of gloves, a Hawaii driver's license, and a passport in his name. Magistrate Judge Ryon McCabe remarked during the hearing that Routh appeared to have been stalking Trump for a month.
The government is planning to seek an indictment for the attempted assassination of Trump, a charge that carries a potential life sentence. A letter penned by Routh prior to the assassination attempt was also released by the Justice Department, prompting concerns about potential copycat actions.
Representative David Joyce expressed apprehension about the letter inciting others to follow suit, emphasizing the need to prevent further violent acts. The case has raised alarm about the security risks faced by public figures and the potential dangers posed by individuals with extremist motives.
