FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — In a harrowing courtroom scene, Ryan Routh, convicted of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump at a Florida golf course last year, attempted to stab himself in the neck with a pen shortly after the jury delivered its verdict. Jurors found Routh guilty on all counts after a brief deliberation period.
Witnesses reported that as the jurors exited the courtroom, Routh suddenly grabbed a pen and attempted to inflict harm on himself. Court marshals swiftly intervened, physically restraining and removing him from the courtroom.
Routh's daughter, Sara Routh, could be heard pleading with her father, crying out, Dad, I love you, don’t do anything. I’ll get you out. He didn’t hurt anybody. She later accused the legal system of rigging the case against him.
The charges against Routh included attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, firearm possession in connection with a violent crime, and other gun-related charges. Routh maintained his innocence throughout the trial, even as the prosecution depicted his actions as premeditated.
During closing arguments, Routh asserted he had no intent to kill Trump, highlighting that he never pulled the trigger of the rifle he aimed at the former president during a golf game on September 15, 2024.
Prosecutors described Routh as having meticulously plotted the attack, while Routh's defense rested its case after a brief examination of witnesses, with Routh opting not to testify.
As news of these dramatic courtroom events unfolds, law enforcement continues to stress the severity of Routh's actions. Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked that the verdict showcases a commitment to addressing political violence in the nation, which she stated is an affront to the country itself.
Routh’s history includes previous legal issues, including attempts to recruit soldiers for international conflicts, showcasing a troubling pattern leading up to this incident.
