Suspect Faces State Charges Concerning Alleged Trump Assassination Attempt

Following allegations of an assassination attempt on President Donald Trump in September, the state of Florida has announced new charges against suspect Ryan Routh.

Key Takeaways

Ryan Routh is being hit with new state charges of attempted murder and terrorism in Florida.
The charges stem from an alleged assassination plot against Donald Trump at a Florida golf course, for which he is already facing federal charges.
Florida’s Attorney General criticized federal delays and seeks to pursue state-level prosecution vigorously.
Routh allegedly fled the scene upon detection but is now caught in a complex legal situation.
A lawsuit was filed in October to limit federal intervention in Florida’s prosecution efforts.

Florida’s Attorney General Charges Routh

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has announced charges against Ryan Routh for attempted murder and terrorism following an alleged plot to assassinate Donald Trump last year. The charges are in addition to the federal ones Routh already faces. He was spotted at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course in September and allegedly pointed a gun at the golf course where Trump was playing. Routh was ultimately arrested and accused of trying to assassinate the then-former president.

Governor Ron DeSantis said after the arrest that the state would conduct its own independent investigation in an effort to pursue possible charges that couldn’t be brought federally. Routh is accused of taking steps as far back as early 2024, performing reconnaissance and allegedly seeking anti-aircraft weapons to target Trump.

Florida AG Charges Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh With Attempted First-Degree Murderhttps://t.co/4dEM6acMOC

— Washington Free Beacon (@FreeBeacon) April 10, 2025

Criticism of Federal Handling

Uthmeier has pointedly criticized the Biden administration, suggesting federal efforts obstructed timely investigation and prosecution of the case. While applauding FBI Director Kash Patel for cooperation, the Attorney General lamented over the challenges faced throughout what he described as a politically motivated attack. Back in October, the previous Florida AG filed a lawsuit to keep the Biden administration from interfering with its investigation.

With Routh’s federal court date approaching in September, further delays could arise as his defense reviews the extensive evidence against him. Judicial processes now center on jurisdictional disputes, with Florida firmly standing its ground to prosecute Routh to the fullest extent.

Potential Consequences for Routh

If convicted of his federal assassination attempt charge, Routh faces a life sentence, adding gravity to an already tense situation. These grave accusations spotlight the desperate need for a swift resolution. Florida contends that proceeding with state-level charges is crucial, invoking national attention on security concerns.

The examination of evidence continues, with scrutiny over how Routh orchestrated his alleged attack and gathered weapons. Insights into his motivations will be vital as the courtroom drama unfolds. Public sentiment hinges on transparently handling the case while upholding national security.