Why the Trump Assassination Case Is INDEFINITELY Delayed

The trial of Ryan Wesley Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, has been indefinitely delayed due to the massive scope of evidence that prosecutors are still sifting through. Routh, a 58-year-old Florida man, was apprehended after allegedly pointing a rifle at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach on September 15, 2024. As the legal process unfolds, prosecutors and investigators are dealing with a vast trove of evidence that has forced them to request more time before the trial begins.

Are they trying to get to the bottom of it, or are they trying to…cover something up?

The Attempted Assassination Plot

On the day of the incident, Routh allegedly hid in the bushes near Trump International Golf Club, aiming a rifle at the golf course while Trump was playing. A Secret Service agent, patrolling the perimeter, spotted the barrel of the rifle sticking out and immediately opened fire. The shots missed, and Routh fled the scene but was quickly apprehended by local authorities after being spotted by a witness. In his vehicle, law enforcement found several incriminating items, including six cellphones, 12 pairs of gloves, and a list of Trump’s public appearances.

Routh was charged with multiple federal crimes, including attempted assassination, possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Federal prosecutors have emphasized the gravity of the case, pointing to evidence that Routh had meticulously planned the attack, as well as other disturbing findings such as a handwritten letter offering $150,000 to anyone who could “finish the job” of assassinating Trump.

Massive Evidence Delays Trial

The evidence collection process has proven to be overwhelming, with prosecutors estimating that they need to comb through 4 million gigabytes of data, including thousands of videos, text messages, and audio files. This includes information obtained from electronic devices seized during searches of Routh’s property, as well as additional evidence from 13 search warrants executed across Florida, Hawaii, and North Carolina.

The sheer amount of evidence has forced federal prosecutors to request an indefinite delay in the trial. They argued that the case should be designated as “complex” due to the large-scale digital forensics work involved and the necessity of preparing expert witnesses to testify on ballistic testing, DNA comparisons, and other forensic analyses.

In addition to the digital evidence, prosecutors are also pursuing over 100 outstanding subpoena returns, making it clear that the investigation is still ongoing. The defense team has not opposed the delay, acknowledging that both sides need more time to prepare for the trial.

A Chilling Letter and Assassination Plans

Among the most shocking revelations in the case is the handwritten letter found in Routh’s possession, addressed “to the world,” in which he admits to attempting to assassinate Trump but failing. He wrote that he “tried [his] best” and urged others to complete the task, offering a $150,000 bounty for Trump’s death. This note has become a critical piece of evidence for the prosecution, as it demonstrates not only premeditation but also a dangerous call for others to follow through with the attack.

The letter also criticizes Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his handling of relations with Iran, which Routh claims had caused chaos in the Middle East. The letter adds weight to concerns that the attempted assassination was politically motivated, further complicating the legal proceedings.

Prosecutors Push Forward

The federal government’s filing details the complexities of the case, revealing that investigators continue to conduct forensic tests and that more evidence is likely to surface as the investigation proceeds. The Department of Justice has emphasized that Routh poses a significant threat and should remain in custody without bail. A detention hearing has already determined that Routh will remain behind bars for the duration of the legal process.

Prosecutors have also been scrutinized for making public the content of Routh’s letter, particularly the mention of the $150,000 bounty on Trump’s life. Attorney General Merrick Garland has defended the decision to release the information, arguing that transparency in the case is critical, even as some Republicans accuse the Justice Department of putting a target on Trump’s back.

What Happens Next?

The indefinite delay of the trial means that it may be several months or even longer before the case goes to court. Prosecutors are expected to continue gathering and analyzing evidence, while the defense team will likely prepare its case based on the vast trove of digital and physical materials presented by the prosecution.

The case raises serious questions about political violence in the United States, and it highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such attacks. Routh’s case has drawn national attention, not only because of his attempt on Trump’s life but also because of the meticulous planning and chilling rhetoric found in his possessions.