Ryan Routh convicted in 2024 attempt on Trump's life; daughter confronts reporters outside court

A Florida federal jury convicted Ryan Routh on charges related to the September 15, 2024, attempt to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump at a Palm Beach golf course. Routh was found guilty of attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, felony possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and assaulting a federal officer. He faces a possible life sentence at sentencing, set for December 18.

Authorities said he was captured during a manhunt when Secret Service agents spotted him in bushes outside one of Trump's golf courses as the former president played a round. A handgun and a camera were found at the scene.

Routh, who chose to represent himself at trial despite warnings from prosecutors and court officials, also faced a pretrial motion in which he requested strippers and a putting green for an imagined victory celebration. He had previously sought to conduct the defense without counsel after court proceedings began.

During the verdict reading, witnesses and family members watched as Routh appeared to jab at his neck with a pen in the courtroom, an action observed by those in attendance and captured by court staff. A court sketch later circulated showing him engaging with the instrument while jurors delivered their verdict.

Outside the courthouse, Routh's daughter, Sarah Ellen Routh, became a focal point of the post-verdict scene. She shouted at reporters and attempted to chase down the police vehicles carrying her father. She was later seen waiting by the back gates with her brother Adam as authorities escorted the defendant away.

Trump issued a statement through Attorney General Pam Bondi, praising the handling of the case. “The trial was meticulously handled, and I would like to thank the Judge and Jury for their time, professionalism, and patience,” the former president said. “This was an evil man with an evil intention, and they caught him.”

The conviction follows the Sept. 15, 2024, attack that occurred nine weeks after Trump survived another attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors said Routh was apprehended during a manhunt, and a firearm along with evidence tied to the crime were recovered.

Routh faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. A judge scheduled sentencing for December 18, 2025.

The case underscores the ongoing security and legal challenges surrounding Trump as he continues to campaign amid threats to public figures.