The suspect in the attempted shooting of Donald Trump “wrote a note saying he intended to kill the ex-president”, prosecutors have said.
Ryan Routh was arrested at West Palm Beach golf course in Florida, after he allegedly tried to assassinate Trump whilst he was playing golf.
He is facing two federal gun crimes charges, though he could face more serious charges as the investigation continues.
The US Justice Department added that the note, addressed “Dear World”, was written by Routh months before the attempt.
Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, is suspected to be the man responsible for the attempted shooting ReutersIt was dropped in a box that was left outside the home of an unidentified person. Following Routh’s arrest, they contacted federal authorities.
Inside the box was ammunition, a metal pipe, and other objects, along with the note which read: “This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I failed you. I tried my best and gave it all the gumption I could muster. It is up to you now to finish the job; and I will offer $150,000 to whomever can complete the job.”
The US Justice Department said that Routh also kept a handwritten list of dates and locations of the former president’s movements and staked out his Florida property.
Prosecutors added that the suspect’s phone pinged towers near Trump’s golf course and his Florida home from August 18 to September 15.
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Routh’s ‘Dear World’ letter found in the box
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Routh stands handcuffed after his arrest
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“The agents also found six cellphones. One of the cell phones contained a Google search of how to travel from Palm Beach County to Mexico,” the filing said.
“The agents also found 12 pairs of gloves; a Hawaii Driver’s License in the Defendant’s name; a passport in the Defendant’s name.”
A journal was found in his car that was said to be filled with criticism of the Russian and Chinese governments, as well as notes about how to join the war in Ukraine to support Kyiv.
Prosecutors argues that Routh should remain locked up as the case moves forward.
The suspect was spotted hiding in the shrubbery at the resort whilst Trump played golf. Secret service agents with the former president noticed a rifle, later determined to be an AK-47 type weapon, pointing through a fence – at that time, Trump was about 300-500 yards (272-557m) away from the gunman.
He is facing two federal gun crimes charges
Reuters
An agent “immediately engaged” with the person holding the rifle, shooting at the suspect, County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said in a statement.
After the agent opened fire, Routh fled but he was soon captured.
The White House issued a statement soon after the incident, saying: “The President and Vice President have been briefed about the security incident at the Trump International Golf Course, where former President Trump was golfing.
“They are relieved to know that he is safe. They will be kept regularly updated by their team.”
“Violence has no place in America,” Kamala Harris said later on social media.