Jury selection began in Fort Pierce for the high-profile trial of Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a South Florida golf course. The Trump assassination attempt trial is drawing national attention as legal proceedings unfold in St. Lucie County, Florida.
Trump Assassination Attempt Trial Opens in Fort Pierce
The Trump assassination attempt trial officially started Monday at the federal courthouse in Fort Pierce. Ryan Wesley Routh, 59, is charged with attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and multiple firearm violations. The case stems from an incident on September 15, 2024, when prosecutors allege Routh tried to shoot Trump as he played golf at his West Palm Beach country club. For a deeper look at the circumstances and legal implications, see three key facts on the Fort Pierce man’s presidential threat case.
Routh has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He is representing himself in court, with court-appointed attorneys available as standby counsel, as ordered by U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Details of the Alleged Trump Assassination Attempt
According to prosecutors, Routh spent weeks planning the alleged attack. On the day in question, a United States Secret Service agent noticed Routh aiming a rifle through shrubbery near the golf course. The agent intervened before Trump came into view. Officials say Routh aimed his weapon at the agent, who then fired at Routh, causing him to drop the rifle and flee the scene without firing a shot.
Law enforcement, aided by a witness, tracked Routh to a nearby interstate where he was arrested. The witness, flown by helicopter, identified Routh as the person seen fleeing the area.
Previous Security Incidents Involving Trump
The Trump assassination attempt trial comes just weeks after a separate incident in Pennsylvania, where Trump survived another attempt on his life during a campaign event. In that case, a gunman fired eight shots, grazing Trump’s ear before being neutralized by Secret Service agents.
Jury Selection Process in the Trump Assassination Attempt Trial
Three groups of 60 potential jurors each were brought into the Fort Pierce courthouse on a staggered schedule. Jurors completed questionnaires as part of the screening process. The court has set aside four weeks for the trial, though attorneys expect it may conclude sooner. Jury selection is anticipated to take three days, with the goal of seating 12 jurors and four alternates.
Judge Cannon approved most of the questions submitted by prosecutors for juror screening. However, she ruled that Routh’s proposed questions about the war in Gaza and U.S. policy on Greenland were not relevant to the case. Routh, following the court’s instructions, appeared in professional business attire and was partially shackled at the defense table.
Opening Statements and Trial Timeline
Opening statements are scheduled to begin Thursday. Prosecutors will present their case immediately after. The trial is expected to draw significant media coverage due to the nature of the charges and the involvement of a former president.
Background on Ryan Routh
Routh, originally from Greensboro, North Carolina, had recently moved to Hawaii before the alleged assassination attempt. He has a history of legal troubles, including arrests for eluding a traffic stop and possessing illegal firearms. In 2002, Routh was arrested after barricading himself from officers with a machine gun and an explosive device. In 2010, police found over 100 stolen items in a warehouse he owned. In both cases, Routh received probation or suspended sentences.
Described by some as a self-styled mercenary leader, Routh reportedly attempted to recruit individuals from Afghanistan, Moldova, and Taiwan to fight in the war in Ukraine. Witnesses have told authorities that Routh often spoke about inserting himself into global conflicts.
Additional Charges and Evidence
In addition to federal charges, Routh faces state charges of terrorism and attempted murder. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts. Last week, Judge Cannon unsealed a 33-page list of potential evidence, including photographs of Routh holding a rifle matching the model found at Trump’s club. Authorities also seized multiple firearms during the investigation, as detailed in the report on two guns seized in Fort Pierce after threats to President Trump. The Federal Bureau of Investigation was also involved in collecting and analyzing forensic evidence related to the case.
Legal Proceedings in Fort Pierce
Judge Cannon, who presides over the Trump assassination attempt trial, has previously drawn attention for her handling of other high-profile cases involving Trump. In this case, she has set clear guidelines for courtroom conduct and Routh’s self-representation.
During pretrial hearings, Judge Cannon explained to Routh that he would be allowed to use a podium to address the jury or question witnesses but would not have unrestricted movement in the courtroom.
Security and Community Impact
The trial has increased security measures around the Fort Pierce federal courthouse. Local residents and officials are closely following developments, given the gravity of the charges and the national implications of the case. For further information on law enforcement actions, see the coverage of guns seized from the Fort Pierce man threatening President Trump.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Trump Assassination Attempt Trial
What is the Trump assassination attempt trial in Fort Pierce about?
The trial concerns Ryan Routh, who is accused of trying to assassinate Donald Trump at a West Palm Beach golf course in 2024. He faces federal and state charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate.
How long is the Trump assassination attempt trial expected to last?
The court has reserved four weeks for the trial in Fort Pierce, but attorneys believe it may finish sooner. Jury selection is planned to take three days, with opening statements set for Thursday.
Are there extra security measures in place for the trial?
Yes, security has been increased at the federal courthouse in Fort Pierce due to the high-profile nature of the Trump assassination attempt trial and the involvement of a former president.
Can you attend the Trump assassination attempt trial in person?
Attendance policies depend on the court’s rules and available space. High-profile trials like this often have limited public seating and increased security protocols.
Where are the proceedings for the Trump assassination attempt trial being held?
The trial is taking place at the federal courthouse in Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, Florida.
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