Ryan Routh Assassination Attempt Trial Delayed Indefinitely Due to Extensive Evidence

Ryan Routh's Assassination Attempt Trial Delayed Due to Extensive Evidence

Federal prosecutors have requested an indefinite delay in scheduling the trial for Ryan Routh, the suspect in the second assassination attempt on former President Trump. This request stems from the vast amount of evidence gathered since Routh's arrest.

In a Wednesday filing, prosecutors asked Florida District Judge Aileen Cannon to officially designate Routh's case as "complex." They revealed the extensive scope of the investigation, spanning multiple states, involving hundreds of interviews, and including hundreds of digital media for review.

"The government has worked diligently since September 15 to investigate the incident," the filing stated. "Over the past two weeks, the United States has interviewed hundreds of witnesses. It has also executed 13 search warrants in Florida, Hawaii, and North Carolina, and seized hundreds of items of evidence, including multiple electronic devices."

Investigators claim to have over 100 outstanding subpoena returns pending and estimate "thousands of videos to review" from the seized electronic devices. The filing further notes that the FBI is conducting forensic tests on evidence, including ballistic testing, fingerprint and DNA comparisons, and preparing several expert witnesses to testify.

Due to the sheer volume of evidence, prosecutors requested an indefinite delay in the trial to allow parties sufficient time to review the discovery and determine necessary motions. They also requested postponing motion deadlines, the calendar call, and the trial date. Routh's defense attorneys did not oppose this request.

Routh faces attempted assassination charges and remains in custody. He previously faced federal charges for possessing a gun with a scratched-out number and possessing a gun illegally as a felon. He pleaded not guilty in federal court in West Palm Beach, Florida.

On September 15, Routh allegedly hid in the bushes outside Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach with a rifle while Trump was playing. A Secret Service agent spotted the gun barrel and opened fire. Routh fled but was apprehended shortly after.