The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) released details of the case against Ryan Wesley Routh, implicated in an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, including a chilling letter addressed “Dear World,” offering a $150,000 bounty to complete the job.
Despite Routh’s failed attempt, he stated in the letter that he had given it his best effort and encouraged others to finish the assassination. The DOJ argued that Routh, 58, poses a flight risk and public safety threat, leading to his continued detention.
Driving the news: Cellphone records place Routh in close proximity to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence and the Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach, suggesting a planned attempt on the former president’s life in mid-August.
- Law enforcement was tipped off by a witness who received a box from Routh containing ammunition, a metal pipe, tools, building materials, phones, and letters – alluding to a meticulous plan by Routh to carry out the assassination.
- Further evidence found in Routh’s possession included a handwritten list of venues Trump was expected to visit from August to September and multiple devices, including cell phones and license plates indicating possible travel plans from Palm Beach to Mexico.
- The FBI discovered that Routh traveled from North Carolina to Florida, staking out the vicinity of Trump’s properties, but never attempted to harm the former president. His intent to kill Trump is demonstrated through the extensive preparation and surveillance undertaken prior to the failed attempt.
- Routh, a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, was arrested with a loaded rifle, supplies, and food at the Trump International Golf Course. He now faces charges of illegal gun possession and weapon offenses due to prior felony convictions.
