Trial Delayed for Trump Assassination Attempt Suspect

A Florida judge has delayed the trial of Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump.

At a Glance

The trial for alleged Trump assassination attempt suspect Ryan Routh has been delayed to September 2025.
The delay is due to a “substantial discovery” and the need to review a large amount of evidence.
Routh faces charges including attempted assassination and assaulting a Secret Service agent.
The defense may pursue insanity defense and are seeking access to Routh’s childhood school records
Judge Aileen Cannon deemed the defense’s request for a longer delay “excessive.”

Trial Delay and Legal Proceedings

Florida Judge Aileen Cannon has postponed the trial of Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump, from February to September 2025. The decision comes in response to the defense’s request for additional time to review extensive evidence, including data from 17 cellphones and numerous electronic devices seized from the defendant.

Judge Cannon, however, pushed back on attempts to achieve a longer delay, stating, “Although discovery is substantial due largely to the high number of electronic devices seized in this case [many from Defendant himself], the schedule afforded below more than accounts for review of such devices and of discovery in general.” The decision underscores the complexity of the case and the volume of evidence that must be examined.

A US judge agreed to delay the trial of Ryan Routh, the suspect in the second assassination attempt of President-elect Donald Trump, as per a court order. The case, originally slated for a Feb. 10 trial, will now go before a jury beginning Sept. 8, 2025 https://t.co/1MfsHI5SfF pic.twitter.com/t3qRuMbWWt

— Reuters Legal (@ReutersLegal) December 25, 2024

Charges and Potential Consequences

Routh, 58, faces severe charges, including attempted assassination and assaulting a Secret Service agent. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment. The gravity of these allegations has prompted careful consideration of the trial timeline to ensure a fair and thorough legal process.

The defense team has indicated they may pursue an insanity defense, with a deadline of February 3 for related notices and motions. This strategy suggests that Routh’s mental state at the time of the alleged offense will be a crucial aspect of the case.

Evidence and Discovery

The Department of Justice has provided a substantial discovery response, including body-worn camera footage and jail communications. The defense is seeking access to Routh’s childhood school records to assess his mental health history, indicating a thorough investigation into the defendant’s background.

Judge Cannon has scheduled three pre-trial conferences before the September trial date, with additional hearings in May for unresolved motions. This structured approach aims to address all necessary legal matters before the trial commences.

Security and Public Interest

The case has drawn significant public attention due to its high-profile nature. Prosecutors have expressed concerns about Routh potentially influencing the jury pool with public statements, as a recorded phone call from jail revealed his intent to seek publicity to aid his case.

The alleged assassination attempt occurred at Trump International Golf Club on September 15, where Routh was reportedly armed with a rifle. A Secret Service agent fired at Routh but missed, leading to a chase and subsequent apprehension. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by high-profile political figures.