A suspect apprehended near Trump International Golf Club is currently facing firearm charges, but legal experts suggest more severe indictments may be forthcoming.
According to USA TODAY, Ryan Routh, arrested for an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, is presently charged only with illegal firearm possession. However, former federal prosecutors indicate that additional, more serious charges could be on the horizon.
The incident occurred on Sunday when a Secret Service agent spotted Routh holding a rifle near the golf club's fence while Trump was playing nearby. By Monday, Routh was charged with two firearm-related offenses, carrying a combined maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Potential For More Serious Charges
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for state prosecutors to pursue attempted murder charges, expressing concern that the federal charges are insufficient.
DeSantis stated:
I think it's really important for the people of Florida, but also for our country, that we pursue the most serious charges that are on the books to hold this guy accountable.
Former federal prosecutors suggest that the Justice Department is likely considering a federal statute that specifically criminalizes assassination attempts against major presidential candidates. This charge carries a potential life sentence.
Steven Ward, a former terrorism prosecutor, explained that initial charges are often the simplest to secure, allowing authorities to hold suspects while building a stronger case. He noted that the Justice Department is "clearly looking" at more severe charges.
Proving 'Attempt' Without Shots Fired
A key challenge for prosecutors pursuing an assassination attempt charge will be proving intent, given that Routh did not fire any shots. Matthew Schneider, a former US attorney, believes prosecutors can build a case based on the current evidence.
Law enforcement reports indicate that Routh waited for 12 hours, pointed a gun through the fence as Trump approached, and quickly fled when confronted. Routh's online history of inflammatory political rhetoric may also factor into the case.
Additional Charges Under Consideration
Besides the attempted assassination charge, prosecutors may consider other serious federal offenses. These could include attempting to murder a former federal officer in retaliation for official duties, which carries a 20-year maximum sentence.
If Routh aimed his weapon at Secret Service agents, he might face charges for attempting to kill a U.S. officer performing official duties. Another possibility is a charge of providing material support for terrorism, which explicitly includes attempted assassinations of major presidential candidates.
Jeffrey Breinholt, a law lecturer with extensive Justice Department experience, suggests that a terrorism charge is likely. He explained that in terrorism cases, initial charges are often less severe to keep suspects in custody while building a more comprehensive case.
State Versus Federal Jurisdiction
Governor DeSantis has issued an executive order directing state prosecutors to bring charges for all violations of state law. However, his assertion that the federal government lacks jurisdiction for an attempted murder charge appears to overlook the specific federal statute addressing assassination attempts on presidential candidates.
If federal officials pursue this charge, it could complicate DeSantis's plans for state prosecution. The federal statute prohibits states from acting while a federal investigation or prosecution is ongoing, potentially giving the federal government exclusive authority in this case.
Conclusion
The case of Ryan Routh, initially charged with firearm offenses following an apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump, may soon see more serious federal charges. Legal experts anticipate potential charges, including attempted assassination of a presidential candidate or terrorism-related offenses. While state officials push for attempted murder charges, the federal government's jurisdiction in such cases may take precedence. As the investigation continues, the legal strategy will likely evolve to reflect the severity of the alleged crime.
