FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — Ryan Routh has made headlines as he embarks on his trial for attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a golf course in Florida. Court records reveal that shortly before the incident, Routh sent texts to his family expressing his love, indicating there may have been deeper issues at play.
Routh's decision to represent himself in court has drawn attention, as it is rare for defendants to take such a step willingly. He plans to call only three witnesses in his defense when proceedings resume on Monday, further compounding the intrigue surrounding the case.
The prosecution, led by seasoned attorneys from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, has been meticulously building its case over the past week. They presented testimony from 38 witnesses to illustrate Routh's alleged months-long plotting to take the life of Trump.
Routh, who pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including attempted murder and assaulting a federal officer, claims he requires only a few hours to outline his defense. One witness he's expected to call is a firearms expert, alongside two character witnesses. His decision not to reveal whether he will testify himself adds another layer of intrigue to the case.
U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon has observed the trial's expedited pace, as Routh's concise questioning has shortened the anticipated trial length significantly, initially set at over three weeks.
Described as a self-proclaimed mercenary with a history of erratic behavior, Routh's background raises questions about his state of mind. He previously attempted to recruit fighters for global conflicts and has had confrontational run-ins with law enforcement. The details of his life, including an extensive legal history, have become critical points of discussion as this high-profile trial unfolds.
With jury deliberations expected soon, the unfolding courtroom drama has captivated the public and legal observers alike. Analysts are watching closely as the defense prepares their strategy, following a dramatic week of testimonies and revelations.
