FORT PIERCE, Fla. — Ryan Routh has been sentenced to life imprisonment in federal court after being convicted for attempting to assassinate Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon issued the life sentence, which includes an additional mandatory seven years due to a firearm offense related to the case.
Prosecutors had advocated for a life sentence, characterizing Routh’s actions as a grave threat to the democratic process. They highlighted that Routh, who showed no remorse, engaged in a “selfish, violent decision” aimed at obstructing voters from making their choice in the election. The attempted assassination took place in September 2024 at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach.
During the trial, Routh defended himself but was later assigned a court-appointed attorney, Martin Roth, to assist with the sentencing process. Roth requested a more lenient sentence of 20 years, arguing that Routh did not commit an act of terrorism and would not pose a future threat given his age. He noted that Routh would remain in custody until his eighties, asserting that his client could still contribute positively to family and community if given the opportunity.
On the day of his arrest, Routh was discovered by a Secret Service agent hiding in the bushes near a golf hole at Trump’s club, allegedly waiting for the candidate to become accessible. The prosecution detailed the methodical nature of his assassination attempt, amplifying the seriousness of his crime.
Routh’s family has expressed their support, with letters highlighting their commitment to his rehabilitation. His son, Adam, asserted that Routh wishes to move forward positively while his sister, Nancy Meyers, requested consideration for Routh to serve his time in a North Carolina facility.
This sentencing marks Routh’s return to the courtroom since a troubling incident after his verdict, where he attempted to harm himself with a pen. Throughout the trial, he delivered a disjointed defense, failing to convincingly argue against the charges after the jury deliberated and found him guilty on all counts, including charges related to gun possession and assault on a Secret Service agent.
A psychological evaluation indicated that Routh suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder and Bipolar II disorder; however, the government maintained that he did not establish how these mental health issues were connected to his criminal behavior. In light of his sentence, Routh’s attorney advocated for mental health treatment during his incarceration.