Ryan Wesley Routh, the suspect in the recent foiled assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, was captured in a booking photo released by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The 58-year-old suspect was seen smirking in the photograph.
According to the arrest records obtained, Routh was identified as married and an atheist in the religion category. His wife was listed as the emergency contact in the records. It was also noted that Routh was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the incident.
Routh's arrest came after authorities noticed a gun protruding from shrubbery on the golf course where Trump was playing. Allegedly, Routh had been camping outside the golf course for nearly 12 hours with food and a rifle.
Fortunately, no shots were fired, and Trump was never in Routh's line of sight. Routh fled the scene after a Secret Service agent fired in his direction. Thanks to an eyewitness, police were able to quickly identify the suspect and his vehicle, leading to his arrest in a neighboring county.
Routh is facing federal charges for possessing a gun with a scratched-out number and for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon. Authorities suggest that more severe charges may be forthcoming, including aggravated assault for allegedly pointing the rifle at a Secret Service agent and making threats against a former president.
Routh is scheduled to appear in court later this month to address the charges against him. State Attorney Dave Aronberg has indicated that additional charges are likely to be added to the case.
