Share and Follow

The man arrested in connection with a suspected plot to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump was seen laughing and smiling as he appeared in federal court Tuesday morning for a pre-trial hearing. 

Asked how his day was going, Ryan Routh, 58, said it was “lovely.” 

The hearing, which regarded an AK-47 Routh was allegedly going to use to try to kill Trump at his Florida golf course, ended without a decision. 

A mugshot of Ryan Routh

Trump assassination suspect Ryan Routh was arrested for alleged attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate in Palm Beach County, Florida, on Sept. 15, 2024. (Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office)

In December, Routh was hit with an attempted felony murder charge stemming from the chaotic aftermath of his apprehension. Interstate 95 in Florida was closed due to the pursuit, which allegedly caused a car crash that injured a young girl. 

Just last week, Routh was accused by federal prosecutors of attempting to obtain a rocket launcher from a Ukrainian contact as part of the alleged assassination plot.

Routh told his associate to “send me a rpg [rocket-propelled grenade] or stinger, and I will see what we can do… [Trump] is not good for Ukraine,” according to court documents obtained by Fox News.

The pair discussed Routh’s purchase options, with Routh allegedly inquiring if his associate could “ship it to me???” before explaining his intent for the military-grade weapons: “I need equipment so that Trump cannot get elected.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Routh’s attorneys. 

Fox News’ Sarah Rumpf-Whitten and Jake Gibson contributed to this report. 

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Illegal immigrants allegedly offered WhatsApp 'menu' of women for sex trafficking ring

Shocking Discovery: WhatsApp Used to Traffic Women in Disturbing Sex Trafficking Scheme

Three individuals believed to be in the United States illegally have been…
UPS halts MD-11 flights after crash exposes risks of outdated aircraft

UPS Grounds MD-11 Fleet: Unveiling the Hidden Dangers of Aging Aircraft

In the wake of a tragic incident involving one of its aircraft,…
Female fire chief wins $1.7m sexism payout over sunglasses complaints

Trailblazing Female Fire Chief Secures $1.7M Settlement in Landmark Sexism Case Over Sunglasses Dispute

In a striking case of workplace discrimination, a female fire chief has…

Heroic Rescue: Ohio School Van Fire Leaves Passengers Trapped, Community Responds

[Watch in the player above: What happens when you call 911?] PARMA,…
Former DACA recipient with violent criminal past flees ICE, tries balcony jump during Chicago arrest

DACA Recipient with Criminal History Makes Daring Escape Attempt During Chicago ICE Arrest

In a significant enforcement action this week, agents from U.S. Immigration and…
Suspicious package sickens several at Joint Base Andrews, home to Air Force One

Unraveling the Mystery: Suspicious Package Sparks Health Concerns at Joint Base Andrews

Several U.S. servicemembers at Joint Base Andrews encountered a suspicious package on…
FILE - Vice President JD Vance, right, and second lady Usha Vance watch a demonstration by Marines during activities to mark the upcoming Marine Corps

JD Vance’s Views on Interfaith Marriage and Religion Stir Controversy

During a recent address at a university event, Vice President JD Vance…
Jack Schlossberg reportedly eyeing up bid for NYC congressional seat

Jack Schlossberg Considers NYC Congressional Run: Kennedy Legacy Eyes Political Future

John F. Kennedy’s legacy is poised to reignite in the political arena…