More Charges Likely For Gunman In Trump Apparent Assassination Attempt

Ryan Wesley Routh, the gunman who allegedly lay in wait near former President Donald Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, is currently being held without bond on federal firearms charges. While the initial charges are for possession of a semi-automatic rifle with an obliterated serial number and illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, authorities expect more serious charges in the coming weeks. Former federal prosecutor David Weinstein explained that the current charges serve as a “placeholder” to keep Routh in custody while investigators gather more evidence and assess the full scope of his intentions.

Investigation into Routh’s Motive and Actions

Routh’s actions came to light on Sunday, September 15, when he was spotted in the vicinity of Trump International Golf Club. Court documents reveal that Routh had been positioned in a sniper-like setup within 800 feet of where Trump was playing. His cell phone records placed him near the golf course for over 12 hours before Secret Service agents spotted him. A gunfight ensued, leading Routh to flee north into Martin County, where he was later apprehended by deputies.

Authorities recovered a semi-automatic rifle with a scope, along with two backpacks containing anti-ballistic ceramic plates, from the bushes near Routh’s hiding spot. While these findings are critical, Weinstein emphasized that investigators are looking to link the rifle and Routh’s proximity to Trump to a more serious threat, which could result in harsher charges.

Potential Threat to a Former President

Federal prosecutors are investigating whether Routh’s actions were intended to threaten or harm Trump, a former president under Secret Service protection. If investigators can establish that Routh posed a credible threat, they may pursue a firearms enhancement charge, which carries a 30-year minimum mandatory sentence. Additionally, the government could charge him with attempting to assault or harm the Secret Service agents on duty or even Trump himself. Routh’s criminal past, which includes two convictions in North Carolina for illegal possession of a machine gun and stolen goods, only complicates his legal situation. His latest firearm charge alone carries a 15-year sentence, but the possibility of more serious charges looms.

A Troubled Background and Anti-Russian Stance

Routh, 58, has a history of criminal behavior, primarily in North Carolina, before moving to Hawaii sometime before 2020. His social media activity shows initial support for Trump, but later posts reflect growing disappointment with the former president. In 2022, Routh traveled to Ukraine to support the fight against Russian forces, despite lacking military experience. During an interview with Newsweek Romania, he expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, criticizing his leadership and moral values.

Routh’s next court appearance is scheduled for September 23, when prosecutors are expected to present further evidence and argue for his continued detention. As investigators continue to analyze his actions and digital footprints, Weinstein anticipates a grand jury indictment with more severe charges soon.