A man who tried to assassinate Donald Trump at his Florida golf course was seen attempting to harm himself with a pen right after being convicted. Ryan Routh, aged 59, visited Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course multiple times to plan the attack and hid in the bushes with a rifle as Trump’s group approached. He faced charges related to the attempted assassination, possessing a firearm for a violent crime, and assaulting a Secret Service agent, following the incident in September last year. The jury swiftly returned a guilty verdict on all charges, potentially leading to Routh serving a life sentence.
Upon hearing the verdict, Routh reportedly tried to stab himself with a pen but was prevented by US Marshals. His daughter, Sara Routh, reacted emotionally during the trial, expressing frustration and disbelief at the situation. Prosecutors highlighted Routh’s meticulous planning for the assassination attempt, which included acquiring a military-grade weapon, monitoring Trump’s movements, and using multiple disposable phones.
The assassination attempt occurred shortly after the US President survived a shooting incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, where one bullet grazed his ear. The perpetrator, Thomas Crooks, was shot and killed by Secret Service agents during the incident. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who previously defended Trump in his impeachment trial, commented on Routh’s guilty verdict, emphasizing the Justice Department’s dedication to prosecuting those involved in political violence.
Routh, a construction worker without legal expertise, chose to represent himself in court and delivered a disorganized defense. He suggested resolving the case through a golf match between him and Trump, with the outcome determining the fate of the loser. Judge Aileen Cannon frequently reprimanded Routh for his courtroom conduct, which included irrelevant questions during jury selection and off-topic remarks about historical figures.
Judge Cannon halted Routh’s opening statement due to its lack of relevance and meandering content, touching on various unrelated topics. Despite his unconventional defense strategy, Routh’s behavior drew criticism from the court, ultimately leading to his conviction and potential life imprisonment.