Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, is set to appear in court in Fort Pierce, Florida. The incident occurred on September 16, 2024, outside Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, where a Secret Service agent thwarted the attempt by firing on Routh. Charged with five federal offenses, Routh’s upcoming hearing will focus on the rifle found in a sniper’s nest near the club, which he allegedly intended to use in the attack.

Routh’s defense team is requesting access to the rifle for examination by their experts, aiming to challenge the prosecution’s assertion of Routh’s intent to kill Trump. However, prosecutors argue that the gun’s functionality is not the critical issue, emphasizing Routh’s alleged intent as the primary focus. The defense’s access to the gun and expert testimony will be key topics addressed during the hearing.

In addition to the assassination attempt charge, Routh faces federal weapons violations and other counts. Prosecutors have revealed new evidence, including messages from Routh’s phone showing attempts to purchase additional weapons, further supporting their claim of his intent. The trial is scheduled to commence in September, presided over by Judge Aileen Cannon, who previously handled Trump’s classified documents trial. The defense is yet to respond to the new information disclosed by the prosecution.