Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced last week that an arrest warrant has been issued for Ryan Routh, accused of being the would-be assassin of former President Donald J. Trump. The warrant charges Routh with attempted felony murder in connection with a traffic accident that gravely injured a six-year-old girl during his attempted escape in September.
On September 15, Routh was spotted by U.S. Secret Service members near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course. Routh fled the scene, heading northbound on Interstate 95. During the pursuit by Martin County Sheriff’s deputies, a car accident occurred, leaving a 6-year-old girl with serious injuries.
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Attorney General Moody stated, “While we continue to seek justice for President Trump, we will fight just as hard to ensure Mr. Routh pays for the tragedy his criminal actions brought on this Florida family.”
Governor Ron DeSantis ordered a state investigation into the assassination attempt after the incident. However, both DeSantis and Moody have criticized the federal government, particularly the FBI and Department of Justice, for allegedly obstructing the state’s efforts by withholding evidence.
In response to federal resistance, Moody filed a lawsuit against U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in October. Despite these challenges, Florida investigators have uncovered additional crimes Routh committed that led to the warrant.
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The arrest warrant for Routh alleges attempted felony murder under Florida law. Prosecutors argue that Routh’s actions constituted domestic terrorism, a felony that led to life-threatening injuries to the young victim. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
An 18-page affidavit submitted by the Attorney General’s Office details evidence uncovered during the investigation.
Governor DeSantis expressed frustration with federal interference, stating, “The tide will turn on January 20th, and we fully expect that the federal roadblocks will be removed. The would-be assassin needs to face the full force of justice, and the people deserve the truth about the defendant’s history, motivations, and plan.”
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Moody reaffirmed her commitment to the case, emphasizing the importance of accountability for all parties affected: “My heart breaks for the child and her family… We will continue to seek justice for all impacted by Routh’s actions.”
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and as Florida pushes for transparency and accountability in the case.
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