Assassination attempt on Trump: US Department of Justice releases note left by accused
The suspect in the case of the second assassination attempt on Trump, Ryan Routh (photo: screenshot from Newsweek video)
A man accused of an alleged attempted murder of US presidential candidate Donald Trump on a golf course in Florida left a note detailing his plans. This could lead to more severe charges being brought against him, reports AP.
Prosecutors submitted the note to the court as justification for their request to keep the defendant in custody. US Magistrate Judge Ryon McCabe agreed, stating that the weight of the evidence against the defendant is compelling.
The note outlining the plans of 58-year-old Ryan Routh was found in a box he left at the home of an unidentified person several months ago. This box was opened only after his arrest last Sunday. It also contained ammunition, a metal pipe, construction materials, tools, phones, and various letters.
"This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but 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," the note read.
Currently, Routh is charged with illegal possession of a weapon, but the prosecution plans to bring additional charges, including the attempted murder of a major political candidate. If convicted, the man could face life in prison.
Second assassination attempt on Trump
On Sunday, September 15, Trump’s campaign office announced that the former president was safe after gunshots were reported near him.
Later, the FBI described the incident as resembling an attempt to murder former President Trump, as reported by the Associated Press.
The incident occurred at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. Secret Service agents protecting Trump allegedly spotted an armed man and fired at him. The suspect was later apprehended in his vehicle and is currently in custody.
The suspect, 58-year-old Ryan Routh, has a history of legal issues and was active on social media, particularly discussing political topics. According to AP, he expressed support for Ukraine on social media and reportedly had a website where he attempted to raise funds and recruit volunteers for the war against Russia.
On September 16, a federal court in Florida filed initial charges against him.
The investigation by the US Secret Service uncovered communication gaps and a lack of caution leading up to the July assassination attempt on Trump.
