Ryan Wesley Rouse reportedly attempted to assassinate the president on September 15th at Trump International Golf Club located in West Palm Beach, Florida.
On that day, Routh – who had previously made small donations to Democrats from 2019 to 2020 – was said to have used an SKS semi-automatic rifle during this incident. It’s noted that he had a scope attached and an expanded magazine. Allegations suggest that the US Secret Service conducted a security sweep in response.
This case isn’t isolated; one of two individuals arrested in April, selling similar weapons, has pled guilty to firearm trafficking as per the Justice Department’s statements.
Cooper, one of the attorneys representing a person involved, has stated in court that another co-conspirator, Tina Brown Cooper, ended up pleading guilty. She was involved in arranging the sale of firearms to Routh, who was previously known to have felony charges for threats against law enforcement.
In an interview with FBI agents, Oxendine admitted to knowing Routh since the 1990s. They frequently interacted while visiting hardware supply stores. Additionally, Cooper confirmed she had known Routh since about 1999, having worked for his roofing company.
In mid-July 2024, Cooper inquired if Oxendine had any firearms available for sale. Documentation reveals she later contacted Rouse, asking about his plans to visit Greensboro, North Carolina.
Cooper also allegedly mentioned to federal agents that Routh sought a weapon for protection. Despite assisting Routh in the acquisition of a rifle, he couldn’t secure one for himself as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, initiatives were taken to sell an SKS rifle for 350 dollars. The deal proceeded despite Cooper being aware of Routh’s past felony charges, including a conviction related to weapons of mass destruction in 2002.
Cooper and Routh had been in contact through social media, and it’s reported that upon hearing of the assassination attempt, Cooper attempted to delete communications on her phone.
Recently, the Justice Department filed a motion concerning the court’s oversight of Routh’s statements, highlighting discussions about acquiring additional firearms.
Routh subsequently filed a motion for a new defense team. He faces multiple felony charges, including the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate and illegal possession of firearms. If found guilty, he could face a life sentence.
