In a gripping federal trial, jurors are scrutinizing evidence against Ryan Routh, accused of an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a 2024 visit to a West Palm Beach golf club. On Tuesday, FBI specialists revealed crucial findings, including explosive text messages expressing Routh’s disdain for Trump and DNA linking him to key items related to the alleged plot.
Routh is defending himself in this high-profile case. Before the trial resumed, he announced to the court, “As far as I’m concerned, we’re going to exclude my son.” This statement confirmed that he won’t call his son, Oran Routh, as a witness; Oran is currently in separate federal custody. Judge Aileen Cannon stressed the importance of this decision, emphasizing that Routh cannot revisit it later.
The proceedings have been marked by tension. Judge Cannon often interrupted both prosecutors and Routh, asking pointedly at one moment, “How much longer is this going to take?” Routh, feeling the pressure, expressed his frustration about his living conditions, stating, “I don’t have hot water and can’t shower … I won’t shower for a month.” The judge, maintaining order, reminded him, “There are proper administrative procedures … not piecemeal, as you have grown accustomed to.”
The trial took a significant turn with the testimony of FBI digital forensic examiner Jerry Llanes. He disclosed that a Samsung phone recovered from Routh’s vehicle contained troubling WhatsApp messages, including a bizarre exchange dated February 3, 2024. One message referenced a past assassination, implying Routh believed that killing Trump was feasible. In communication with a contact listed as “Ben,” Routh bluntly declared, “I hate him” and asserted, “Shan’t get elected again.” In another exchange, he vented, “What an idiot. He needs to go away.”
Further evidence included searches for flights from Miami to Mexico and Colombia and a concerning photo depicting a rifle tied to a tree. Tying Routh directly to the weapon was FBI DNA examiner Kara Gregor, who testified that Routh’s DNA was found on critical items, including a rifle grip and other components that could be linked to the alleged attack.
In a particularly tense moment during cross-examination, Routh sarcastically challenged Gregor, asking if she had tested a series of unrelated items, including a Colt .45 case and a Sunny D. Gregor clarified that those items had not been part of her examination.
This trial is drawing considerable attention, especially as it continues to unfold rapidly. With forensic experts expected to testify further, prosecutors plan to conclude their case by the end of the week. Routh is anticipated to call his witnesses next week, as the courtroom drama intensifies around this disturbing plot against a former president.
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