Live Updates from the Ryan Rouse Trial
Here’s a recap of the ongoing federal trial involving Ryan Rouse, who stands accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump in September 2024 at his Palm Beach Golf Club. The proceedings are not being televised, but reporters are providing updates from the federal court in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Secret Service Agent Describes “Textbook Ambush” – 11:52am
Special Agent Robert Fercano, the government’s first witness, testified that Rouse had aimed a rifle directly at him while he was observing the sixth hole of the Trump International Golf Course on September 15, 2024, as Trump played the fifth hole.
Fercano, now involved in homeland security investigations, was a Secret Service agent at the time. He mentioned noticing “anomalies in the fence line,” which led him to observe what he thought resembled military equipment, including a face and a barrel of a weapon.
He attempted to make contact, calling out, “Hey, Sir,” but soon noticed the rifle barrel moving and reported hearing what seemed like a moan. He described seeing Rouse smile, leading him to initially believe the individual was homeless. But then, he asserted that the rifle barrel, which seemed to be part of a makeshift bulletproof shield, continued moving.
“It appeared to be a textbook ambush scenario,” Fercano testified, relaying his actions of aiming and firing as he retreated. The court also heard his urgent radio call, stating at 1:24pm that Trump was on the fifth hole, followed promptly by “The shot was fired, the shot was fired, the shot was fired.” Fercano indicated he believed the weapon was an AK-47-style rifle.
The prosecution then presented a Chinese-manufactured SKS rifle, with Fercano demonstrating how a 1-2 inch barrel was positioned in the fence that day. Rouse is expected to respond after the court resumes its session at 1:05pm ET.
Rouse Gives a Meandering Opening Statement – 11:23am
In a surprising turn, Ryan Rouse, representing himself, spoke to the jury for seven minutes before Judge Irene Cannon halted him, stating his remarks “had nothing to do with this case.” He began by apologizing and then embarked on a winding monologue covering a range of topics, from prehistoric history to contemporary global leaders.
Rouse queried, “What is the intention? …Why are we here?” before referencing figures like Adolf Hitler, Vladimir Putin, and various conflicts worldwide. After four minutes, Judge Cannon interrupted again, explaining that his comments had strayed too far from the trial’s focus. Rouse became emotional while mentioning historical figures like Henry Ford and the Wright brothers, prompting the judge to end his opening remarks and allow the prosecution to call its first witness.
Prosecutors Present Opening Arguments – 10:15am
Federal prosecutors commenced their case against Rouse, stating he was just seconds away from executing an assassination attempt during a golf event in West Palm Beach last year. An aide quoted Rouse as saying, “Trump can’t be elected,” highlighting the seriousness of his alleged intentions.
They detailed how Rouse had traveled from Hawaii equipped with a military-grade rifle, 20 rounds of ammunition, multiple burner phones, and various aliases. A photo of the golf course was shown, illustrating where prosecutors claimed Rouse had been hiding for hours.
Fercano testified about locating Rouse and reported that if he hadn’t spotted the rifle aimed at him, Rouse could have successfully carried out the attack.
Rouse pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to assassinate a presidential candidate and assaulting a federal officer. Prosecutors stated he was armed when a Secret Service agent intercepted him near Trump’s golf course. This attempt followed a previous incident where Trump survived an assassination attempt earlier in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The trial continues to unfold, and updates will be provided as more details emerge.
