Ryan Rouse Dismisses Legal Representation

Ryan Rouse, a 59-year-old man who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump last year, is moving to represent himself in his ongoing lawsuit. This development follows his intention to dismiss the public federal advocates, Kristy Militello and Renee Michelle Sihvola, appointed by the court.

A court hearing regarding this request is set for Thursday in Fort Pierce, but Rouse has not specified his reasons for wanting to part ways with his legal team.

Rouse’s arrest occurred on September 15, 2024, after a Secret Service agent discovered a rifle while investigating a suspicious item at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach. The exact whereabouts of Trump during the incident remain unclear.

Reports indicate that after the agent discharged a round at Rouse, he discarded his weapon and fled the scene, leaving behind both a firearm and various personal belongings, including two backpacks and a GoPro camera.

Less than an hour later, Rouse was apprehended on Interstate 95 in Martin County, Florida. A bystander had noticed his erratic driving and alerted law enforcement. Witnesses reported seeing him run from the area to a black Nissan Xterra. Following this, police issued a lookout alert, and soon afterward, he was taken into custody.

During the search of his vehicle, federal agents discovered numerous pieces of evidence, including escape plans, burner phones, counterfeit identification, and documents detailing participation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Prosecutors revealed that Rouse had been exploring various ways to acquire weapons, including contacts in Mexico. He had been reportedly plotting the assassination for at least six months and had been in communication with someone identified as “Ramiro” about smuggling arms across the border.

According to authorities, Rouse had plans to be in Mexico City following the failed attack on September 15. His trial is currently scheduled to start on September 8, 2025.