Ryan Wesley Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, appeared in federal court on Friday amid claims from his defense team that crucial evidence is being withheld by the government. Routh faces serious charges stemming from an incident that occurred in September when he allegedly tried to carry out the attack while hiding on the grounds of Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
During the court hearing at the Alto Lee Adams Federal Courthouse in Fort Pierce, Routh’s attorneys argued that they need to test the rifle he had with him at the golf course. They contended that it may not have been in working condition for a long-range shot, which is relevant to the case. Judge Aileen Cannon, who is overseeing the proceedings, asked if the defense believed the weapon could not have fired from the distance claimed by prosecutors.
The defense attorney, Kristy Militello, explained that they wanted an expert to assess the rifle’s operability and accuracy. Prosecutors, however, objected to this request, indicating that they believe the evidence against Routh is strong.
This court appearance comes as Trump mentioned he plans to release a report detailing various threats made against him in the past year. He expressed concern about the lack of information surrounding these incidents, including Routh’s case. Trump noted that some individuals involved in these threats had unusual circumstances, such as possessing multiple cell phones and foreign applications, which raised his suspicions.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case against Routh will unfold further, with both sides preparing for a battle over evidence and the implications of the alleged assassination attempt.