Florida jury convicts would-be Trump assassin Ryan Routh on five counts; daughter erupts in courtroom
After the verdict, Routh attempted to stab himself with a pen and his daughter shouted at reporters; prosecutors say a note to the World expressed remorse and offered $150,000 to finish the job.
A federal jury in Florida convicted Ryan Routh, 59, on five counts in connection with an alleged attempt to assassinate Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign. Routh, who represented himself at trial, was found guilty of charges including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and multiple firearms offenses. The verdict was announced Sept. 23, 2025, in Martin County.
Prosecutors presented a final witness tying Routh to actions involving a Trump golf club and a gun purchase, part of the evidence that led to conviction on five counts. The charges carry a maximum life sentence.
Moments after the verdict was read, Routh appeared to reach toward his neck with a pen and tried to stab himself; four U.S. Marshals restrained him to prevent harm.
Inside the courtroom, Sara Routh stood and directed profanity at reporters and the media as the verdict was announced, telling them, 'Don’t do anything. I will get you out,' and, 'What the f---. F---. He didn’t hurt anybody. This is not fair. This is all rigged — you guys are a--holes.' She then stormed out of the building, and, as the black SUV carrying her father departed, she shouted 'I love you' toward the vehicle.
A handwritten note addressed to the World was introduced into evidence. It read, 'This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I am so sorry I failed you. I tried my best and gave it all the gumption I could muster. It is up to you now to finish the job; and I will offer $150,000 to whomever can complete the job.'
After the verdict, Routh was escorted away in a black SUV. Sara Routh chased the vehicle and continued to berate the press, while her brother Adam Routh appeared calmer and helped shepherd his sister into the car.
The case sits within a broader security context surrounding the 2024 campaign, highlighting the ongoing threat landscape faced by presidential candidates and the federal government's handling of prosecutions involving attempted political violence.