U.S. Justice Department Charges Man in Assassination Plot Against Trump

The U.S. Justice Department plans to charge Ryan Routh with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Prosecutors allege Routh stalked Trump in South Florida, attempted to kill him at a golf course, and had a history of criminal activities. Lawyers questioned the evidence, suggesting it might be a publicity stunt.

The U.S. Justice Department is set to charge 58-year-old Ryan Routh, who is accused of hiding with a gun at former President Donald Trump's Florida golf course, with attempting to assassinate a major political candidate. Prosecutor Mark Dispoto revealed this could carry a life sentence if convicted.

Routh was ordered by U.S. Magistrate Judge Ryon McCabe to remain in jail without bond pending trial. The arrest stemmed from Routh's alleged month-long stalking of Trump in South Florida. Prosecutors presented evidence including a letter Routh wrote months earlier about an 'assassination attempt' on Trump and a $150,000 bounty on his life.

Defense lawyers unsuccessfully argued for a $250,000 bond, suggesting the evidence was flimsy and framing the attempt as a possible publicity stunt. Routh, arrested this month, had his car and cell phone records pointing to Trump's locations. Trump has criticized the charges as inadequate, labeling Routh a 'maniac assassin.'

(With inputs from agencies.)