FBI Testimony Highlights Evidence in Ryan Rous’ Trial
On Monday, FBI evidence specialists shared details in court about the messy condition of Ryan Rous’ black Nissan Xterra, which was filled with clothes, tools, and handwritten notes, making it seem as though someone had been living there. This discovery occurred the day after his arrest.
FBI Special Agent Cindi Barova, who leads the Evidence Response Team at the Miami Field Office, noted that the rear seats of the Xterra were folded down in a way that resembled a mattress. She remarked, “It looks like the vehicle was inhabited.”
During her testimony, Barova presented six mobile phones taken from the SUV, along with an expired Hawaiian driver’s license belonging to Rous, a valid U.S. passport, and a handwritten note. One memo contained flight information to Mexico and Colombia under the name “Brian Wilson.” Additionally, a document from a Hawaiian bank mentioned making tourniquets.
Prosecutors Continue Case Against Rous
As the trial moved into its sixth day, the prosecution laid out various pieces of evidence from the SUV. Barova described the vehicle as “unorganized,” containing various items such as a .45 caliber cartridge casing amidst food, tools, gloves, and a disposable tablecloth. The jury viewed photographs showcasing these materials, including the close-up of the .45 casing.
She also highlighted potentially suspicious stickers on the vehicle that appeared to have been spray-painted black. Among other items found in the SUV were red cargo flashlights, camera batteries, multiple work gloves, and black masks.
Prosecutors mentioned overnight park slips from a gas station where Rous had been, detailing his whereabouts over several nights. They also displayed an unopened can of Vienna sausages and a 56-ounce bottle of Sunny Delight found in the vehicle, along with North Carolina and Ohio license plates discovered under the driver’s seat. It was noted that a North Carolina registration listed Rous’ daughter, Sarah Ellen Rous.
Details from Rous’ Testimony
Rous, who is representing himself, raised questions about the evidence, suggesting an item could have been in the vehicle for years. He pointed out inconsistencies in photos showing the .45 caliber casing. For the first time during the trial, prosecutors were visible after Rous challenged the witnesses during cross-examination.
He acknowledged the presence of dress clothes in the SUV and referred to a note listing numbers for “Sarah” and “Oran,” interpreting it as an indication the vehicle might need to be moved.
FBI Evidence Analysis Requests Coordinator Erin Farley also testified about items taken from an SKS rifle, mentioning fingerprints found but not being able to identify whose they were.
When Rous inquired whether removing tape from the gun would impact a range accuracy test, Judge Aileen Cannon interjected, stating, “The gun gets fired.”
Trial Outcomes and Future Proceedings
Court staff announced that details of the trial display would remain confidential until the case concludes. Rous informed the judge that he had not yet decided whether to call witnesses, including for his son Oran. Judge Cannon noted that arrangements had been made for his transport.
Additional forensic witnesses, including firearms and toolmark examiners, will also be called by the prosecution. Rous is currently on trial for federal charges related to an alleged assassination attempt against Donald Trump, which reportedly occurred a year ago to the day.
