Ryan Routh, 59, convicted of attempting to kill President Donald Trump on a Florida golf course, has decided to hire an attorney for his upcoming sentencing.
Sentencing hearing delayed
The federal sentencing hearing in Fort Pierce, Florida, was postponed from this week to early February after Routh requested and was granted an attorney to represent him during the sentencing and appeal phases.
Chaos in September
Shortly after jurors found Routh guilty on all counts—including an attempt to kill a presidential candidate and several firearm‑related charges—the courtroom erupted into chaos. Routh tried to stab himself in the neck with a pen, and officers quickly dragged him out. The pen he used was flexible to prevent people in custody from using it as a weapon.
Trial details
Prosecutors said Routh spent weeks plotting to kill Trump before aiming a rifle through shrubbery as the then‑Republican presidential candidate played golf on Sept. 15, 2024, at his West Palm Beach country club. During the trial, a Secret Service agent who was helping protect Trump testified that he spotted Routh before Trump came into view. Routh aimed his rifle at the agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to drop his weapon and run away without firing a shot.
Motion for an attorney
In the motion requesting an attorney, Routh offered to trade his life in a prisoner swap with inmates unjustly held in other countries and said an offer still stood for Trump to “take out his frustrations on my face.” He also wrote, “Just a quarter of an inch further back and we all would not have to deal with all of this mess forwards, but I always fail at everything (par for the course),” Routh wrote.
Judge’s decision
U. S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, nominated by Trump in 2020, granted Routh’s request. In her decision, she chastised the “disrespectful charade” of Routh’s motion, saying it made a mockery of the proceedings. Nevertheless, the judge said she wanted to err on the side of legal representation.
Legal precedent and counsel
Cannon signed off on Routh’s request to represent himself following two hearings in July. The U. S. Supreme Court has held that criminal defendants have the right to represent themselves in court proceedings, as long as they can show a judge they are competent to waive their right to be defended by an attorney. Routh’s former defense attorneys served as standby counsel and were present during the trial.
Key Takeaways
- Routh’s sentencing hearing moved to early February after an attorney was granted.
- The September courtroom incident involved a self‑inflicted pen stab and a flexible pen.
- Judge Cannon approved the attorney request despite criticism of the motion’s tone.
The decision marks a significant shift in Routh’s legal strategy as he faces sentencing for the attempted assassination of President Trump.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
