FORT PIERCE, FL – Ryan Wesley Routh, 59, was sentenced Wednesday to life plus 84 months in federal prison for the attempted assassination of President Donald J. Trump and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer, following his conviction by a federal jury in the Southern District of Florida.
U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon imposed the sentence after jurors found Routh guilty on all five counts, including firearms and violent offenses stemming from his failed plot to kill the then-presidential candidate in 2024.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi said the life sentence underscores the severity of the crime, calling Routh’s actions “a direct assault against our entire democratic system.” FBI Director Kash Patel added that the sentence demonstrates “the justice system will not tolerate such heinous attacks.”
Secret Service agent’s quick response stopped assassination attempt
According to court evidence, Routh was discovered on the perimeter of the Trump International Golf Club by U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Robert Fercano, who spotted him aiming what appeared to be an AK-47–style rifle from a concealed position near a fence line. Fercano fired at Routh, who then fled the scene.
Law enforcement later recovered a Norinco SKS rifle, armor plates, and a surveillance camera trained on the golf course’s sixth green—where Trump was moments away from playing. Investigators also found that Routh had conducted surveillance near both the golf club and Mar-a-Lago multiple times in the weeks before the attack.
A letter recovered from Routh’s possession contained a message admitting his intent: “This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I am so sorry I failed you.”
FBI and Justice Department led extensive national investigation
The FBI Miami Field Office led a nationwide investigation with assistance from the Secret Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, and Martin County Sheriff’s Office. Agents tracked Routh’s movements, cell records, and multiple electronic devices, which revealed preparations for the attack and possible attempts to flee the country.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said the case represents “a resounding rejection of political violence” and a reminder that political disputes “must be resolved through civil discourse and lawful protest, not force.”
Key points
- Ryan Wesley Routh sentenced to life plus 84 months for attempted assassination of President Trump
- Secret Service agent’s actions prevented what officials called a “national tragedy”
- DOJ officials say the case reaffirms zero tolerance for political violence
Justice Department affirms zero tolerance for political violence
