Federal prosecutors sought a life sentence, saying that Routh had planned the shooting for months and did not express remorse for his actions.
FORT PIERCE, Fla.—A federal judge on Feb. 4 sentenced Ryan Routh to life in prison for attempting to assassinate then-candidate President Donald Trump in 2024.
Routh was also sentenced to seven years behind bars on a gun charge and received a $500 fine.
During the sentencing hearing, prosecutors sought life imprisonment for his assassination plot, while the defense mounted broad but ultimately unsuccessful objections.
Defense attorney Martin Roth opened by making a blanket objection to all facts in the presentence investigation report, reiterating Routh’s not-guilty plea and disputing any finding that he intended to commit murder. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon pressed Roth on whether he would offer evidence to support the objection. When he said no, prosecutors argued the report contained facts, not allegations. Cannon overruled the objection.
Roth next argued that the federal terrorism statute did not apply, claiming it does not cover former presidents or major presidential candidates. Cannon read the statute aloud and repeatedly asked Roth to identify a legal gap.
Prosecutors countered that the statute is not exhaustive and clearly covers conduct related to protected individuals, including assault and interference with protective duties. They emphasized that assault under the law includes impeding agents in the performance of their duties. Cannon agreed, ruling that the charges qualified as terrorism offenses, citing overwhelming evidence such as text messages, months of planning, and weapons acquisition.
Cannon stated that removing the terrorism designation would require ignoring statutory evidence.
Prosecutor John Shipley called for a life sentence, arguing Routh was prepared to kill or assault anyone who interfered, showed no remorse, and came close to carrying out the assassination.
He noted a round was chambered with the safety off, described the plot as carefully planned over months, and said Routh intended to alter American democracy by killing Trump.
Shipley also cited additional criminal conduct tied to the plot, plans to flee to Mexico, Routh’s extensive criminal history, and the psychological harm inflicted on a Secret Service agent. He argued a life sentence was necessary for deterrence and public safety.
By Jackson Richman and Jacob Burg
