FORT PIERCE (CBS12) — Ryan Routh, who was convicted of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump during a round of golf at Trump International Golf Club in 2024, is now seeking legal representation for his upcoming sentencing.
In September, Routh, who represented himself during the trial, was found guilty on all five counts he faced, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Court documents show that the Federal Public Defender’s Office has requested the court to appoint a conflict-free attorney to represent Routh during the sentencing scheduled for Dec. 18.
According to court records, the public defender’s office also indicated that his standby counsel should not be reappointed due to a conflict of interest.
The U.S. Department of Justice said that the prosecution does not oppose allowing Routh to have legal counsel for his sentencing. They noted that this appears to be Routh’s preference.
The DOJ stated that appointing new counsel would not allow Routh to reargue his trial or question any previous court rulings. Furthermore, they emphasized that the sentencing date will not be postponed.
As of now, if the court decides to appoint a new lawyer for Routh, the attorney will be chosen from outside the Public Defender’s Office, in line with Routh’s request for legal representation at his sentencing.
WPEC-CBS12 is a news partner of the South Florida Sun Sentinel.