Trial Delayed for Man Accused of Plotting to Assassinate Trump

The trial for Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf course, has been postponed to September 8, 2025. Federal Judge Aileen Cannon granted the delay on Monday to allow more time for evidence review and mental health evaluations.

Routh, 58, faces multiple charges, including attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and assaulting a federal officer. The charges stem from an incident on September 15, 2024, when Routh was allegedly found hiding in the bushes with a rifle near Trump’s golf course.

Judge Cannon noted that Routh’s defense team has not yet decided whether to pursue an insanity defense, with a deadline of February 3 to formally announce their intentions. Mental health evaluations are ongoing, but the defense has not provided meaningful responses to prosecution requests for evidence, according to the Washington Examiner.

Federal prosecutors allege that Routh fled after being confronted by a Secret Service agent who spotted a rifle barrel poking out of the bushes. The agent fired at Routh, prompting him to escape the scene. He was later apprehended, but during the pursuit, Routh caused a car crash on Interstate 95, injuring a six-year-old girl.

In addition to federal charges, Routh faces a state charge of attempted murder for the car crash. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has accused Routh of causing the accident as he tried to evade law enforcement.

“Despite the federal government frustrating our efforts, which we continue to challenge in court, we found that Mr. Routh’s actions caused catastrophic injuries to a six-year-old girl,” Moody said. “While we continue to seek justice for President Trump, we will fight just as hard to ensure Mr. Routh pays for the tragedy his criminal actions brought on this Florida family.”

The Florida Attorney General’s office, supported by Governor Ron DeSantis, has criticized federal authorities for allegedly hindering their investigation into the case. Moody emphasized that her office remains committed to pursuing justice at both the federal and state levels.

With the trial now set for 2025, the case against Routh will continue to draw national attention as both state and federal prosecutors seek to hold him accountable.

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