Ryan Wesley Routh, the suspect in the second foiled assassination plot against former President Donald Trump, was photographed smirking in his mugshot.
Ryan Wesley Routh, the suspect in the second foiled assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, was photographed smirking in his booking photo, obtained by Fox News Digital.
Routh, 58, was arrested Sunday after authorities spotted a gun poking out of the shrubbery on the golf course where Trump was playing that afternoon. Routh allegedly camped outside the golf course with food and a rifle for nearly 12 hours, records revealed.
Trump Assassination Attempt Suspect Ryan Routh Grins in Booking Photo
Routh did not fire any shots, never had Trump in his line of sight and sped away after the agent who spotted him fired in his direction, officials said.
Police were able to quickly obtain descriptions of both the suspect and his vehicle with the help of an eyewitness, authorities said, and he was arrested in a neighboring county.
Trump Assassination Attempt Suspect Ryan Routh Grins in Booking Photo
Routh has been charged federally with possessing a gun with a scratched-out number and with possessing a gun illegally as a felon, though more serious charges are likely pending.
He is due back in court later this month, and charges could include aggravated assault for allegedly pointing the rifle at a Secret Service agent and making threats against a former president, State Attorney Dave Aronberg previously told Fox News Digital.
Trump Assassination Attempt Suspect Ryan Routh Grins in Booking Photo
FBI investigators carry a box of evidence from the perimeter of Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. Ryan Routh was arrested earlier this week after allegedly attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump while hiding in the bushes along the golf course. (Mega for Fox News Digital)
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a press conference Tuesday that Florida will pursue more charges against Routh and that his offense should merit life in prison.
"This is someone who came here to kill the former president of the United States," DeSantis said. "He should never see the light of day again."
Routh's arrest comes just months after another man was arrested for allegedly plotting to assassinate Trump in Las Vegas. That suspect, Alexander Hillel Treisman, is also facing federal charges.
The Secret Service has said that it is investigating both cases and that it is committed to protecting the former president.
Trump has not commented on Routh's arrest, but he has previously said that he is grateful for the work of the Secret Service.
In a statement, Trump said, "I am very grateful to the Secret Service for their hard work and dedication. They are the best in the world, and I am confident that they will continue to keep me safe."
