Man Who Tried to Assassinate Trump Sentenced to Life in Prison
Ryan Routh, the man who attempted to assassinate then former President Donald Trump at a Florida golf course in 2024, was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison, bringing an end to one of the most serious domestic security cases in recent years.
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon imposed the sentence during a hearing in Fort Pierce, Florida. Routh had been convicted in September on five federal counts, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate. Cannon, who was appointed to the bench by Trump during his first term, ordered the life sentence after rejecting arguments for leniency.
Routh appeared in court shackled at his hands and feet and dressed in a tan prison jumpsuit. He was instructed to remain seated while addressing the court.
“Nothing stands before you but a hollow American shell,” Routh told the judge. “Sadly, execution is not an option.”
Judge Cannon cut him off as he began referencing geopolitical conflicts before delivering her ruling.
“Your plot to kill is deliberate and evil despite your feigned peacefulness,” Cannon said. “You demonstrated your intent to kill. You almost achieved your evil plan.”
Additional Sentences Imposed
In addition to life in prison, Routh received several concurrent sentences. Those include 84 months for possession of a firearm during a violent crime, 240 months for assault on a federal officer, 18 months for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and 60 months for possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
The Justice Department had argued for a life sentence, citing the seriousness of the offense and the extensive planning involved.
Prosecutor John Shipley told the court that Routh “showed no remorse” and “prepared to kill or forcibly assault anyone who got in his way.”
As Routh was led out of the courtroom following sentencing, he looked into the gallery at someone he appeared to know and smiled, winking briefly before exiting.
Details of the Failed Assassination Plot
According to evidence presented at trial, Routh spent weeks surveilling Trump’s movements in Florida before the Sept. 15, 2024 attack. Investigators said Routh had been near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course and the Mar-a-Lago area multiple times prior to the incident.
Burner phones recovered by authorities showed internet searches including “Trump’s upcoming rallies” and “Palm Beach traffic cameras.”
Routh armed himself with an SKS-style rifle and positioned himself along the fence line of Trump’s golf course, creating what prosecutors described as a sniper’s nest. He hung armored plates over the fence for protection and aimed his weapon at the sixth hole, where Trump was expected to pass during his round of golf.
A Secret Service agent clearing the area ahead of Trump noticed the barrel of a rifle protruding through the chain-link fence and spotted Routh’s partially concealed face. With the rifle pointed in his direction, the agent fired several shots and took cover while alerting other officers.
Routh fled the scene but was seen by a civilian, Tommy McGee, who followed him briefly and recorded his license plate number. McGee later testified at trial and was flown to identify Routh after authorities stopped his vehicle.
“You’re a good man. You’re my hero. You’re an American hero,” Routh told McGee during cross-examination.
Confession Letter and Escape Plans
Investigators also uncovered a handwritten letter in which Routh confessed to the attempted assassination.
“I tried my best and gave it all the gumption I could muster,” Routh wrote. “It is up to you now to finish the job; and I will offer $150,000 to whomever can complete the job.”
Prosecutors said there was no evidence Routh had access to that amount of money.
Other searches recovered from his devices showed he had researched “Directions to Miami airport” and “flights to Mexico,” indicating an effort to plan an escape after the shooting.
A Chaotic Trial and Courtroom Incident
Routh chose to represent himself during much of the case, a decision that repeatedly disrupted proceedings. Throughout the trial, Judge Cannon frequently reprimanded him for straying outside the legal scope of the case.
In public filings before trial, Routh referred to Trump as “a racist pig” and challenged him to physical confrontations, including a round of golf.
During closing arguments, Routh claimed the assassination was “never going to happen” and argued that without a shot fired, there was no attempt. Judge Cannon interrupted him repeatedly.
The jury deliberated for approximately three hours before returning guilty verdicts on all counts.
After the verdict was read, Routh attempted to stab himself in the neck with a pen. His daughter screamed from the courtroom as U.S. Marshals restrained him and prevented further injury.
Case Closes With Maximum Sentence
The life sentence ensures Routh will spend the rest of his life in federal prison. Authorities said the case underscores the ongoing threats faced by public officials and the critical role of protective services in preventing political violence.
Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.