FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — Ryan Routh, convicted of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump on a Florida golf course in 2024, has been sentenced to life in prison. A federal prosecutor described the assassination attempt as unacceptable in any context.
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon handed down the sentence in a Fort Pierce courtroom filled with tension, recalling the chaotic moment in September when Routh attempted to harm himself right after being found guilty on all counts.
“American democracy cannot function if individuals resort to violence against candidates,” Assistant U.S. Attorney John Shipley stated during the sentencing.
Routh’s attorney, Martin L. Roth, argued for leniency, claiming Routh ultimately chose not to pull the trigger. However, the judge highlighted Routh’s extensive criminal history and dismissed the defense's claims of his good character.
During the hearing, Routh read a lengthy statement that the judge found irrelevant to the proceedings. He insisted he had lived a good life, but was ultimately cut off by the judge.
“Your plot to kill was deliberate and evil,” Judge Cannon declared, contrasting Routh's actions with the ideals of peace and democracy.
The court found Routh guilty of multiple charges, including attempted assassination, firearm offenses, and assaulting a federal officer. His actions had posed a significant threat to lives, according to the prosecution.
The judge noted Routh’s lack of remorse for his actions, differentiating between the defendant's past and the severity of his recent crimes. She ultimately sentenced him to life without parole, in addition to seven years for the firearm charge.
Routh’s lawyer had initially sought a 20-year sentence, arguing that he was nearing sixty and deserving of a chance for rehabilitation. However, the prosecution underscored Routh's calculated actions, which included planning to kill Trump while he was playing golf.
A Secret Service agent testified during Routh’s trial, recalling the moment Routh aimed a rifle at them just before Trump’s arrival at the course, prompting the agent to return fire.
Routh's bizarre behavior continued throughout the trial, offering questionable exchanges including a willingness to trade his life for others unjustly imprisoned, further complicating the proceedings.
In the judge's decision to appoint Routh an attorney for the sentencing, she criticized the defendant’s demeanor as a mockery of justice, ultimately deciding he should have legal representation. Routh had previously represented himself but opted for counsel during the sentencing phase.
Routh's history of criminal activity, including previous felony convictions and erratic behavior, raised concerns about his mental state and intentions, particularly evidenced by his writings that showcased a host of troubling sentiments towards Trump and his administration.
