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Justice Department Seeks Life Sentence for Trump Assassination Attempt

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Justice Department seeks a life sentence for Ryan Routh after his five-count conviction for attempting to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump in West Palm Beach, September 15, 2024.
Routh, 59, was found guilty on five counts after hiding with a semiautomatic rifle near Trump's golf club.
Routh previously attempted self-harm after the verdict.
Sentencing is set for February 4, with the probation office recommending the maximum punishment.

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Story summary

The Justice Department seeks a life sentence for Ryan Routh after his five-count conviction for attempting to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump in West Palm Beach, September 15, 2024.
Routh, 59, was found guilty on five counts after hiding with a semiautomatic rifle near Trump's golf club.
Routh previously attempted self-harm after the verdict.
Sentencing is set for February 4, with the probation office recommending the maximum punishment.