Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on September 17, 2024, that the state will launch a criminal investigation into the apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at his golf course in West Palm Beach. DeSantis made the statement during a press conference, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the investigation.
At a glance:
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a state-level criminal investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.
- The suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, allegedly tried to use a rifle to target Trump at his West Palm Beach resort but was apprehended by authorities.
- The state investigation will run alongside the federal probe, with potential additional charges to be filed.
“The public deserves to know the truth about how this assassination [attempt] came to be,” DeSantis said. He added that he had directed all state agencies to work swiftly in uncovering the truth and holding the suspect accountable.
The incident occurred over the weekend when Routh, 58, allegedly attempted to target Trump by pushing a rifle through the fence surrounding the former president’s resort. However, law enforcement officials noted that Routh did not have a clear line of sight on Trump, who was present at the time, and no shots were fired. Secret Service agents engaged with the suspect along the perimeter of the property. After fleeing the scene, Routh was apprehended later and charged with federal gun crimes, including unlawful possession of a firearm and an obliterated serial number on the weapon.
The federal investigation is already underway, and the state probe will run simultaneously. Routh’s charges could carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. His arraignment is scheduled for September 30, 2024, where additional charges may be brought against him.
DeSantis stressed the importance of Florida’s role in ensuring justice. “We have a strong interest in the state of Florida of bringing the suspect to justice to the fullest extent of law,” he said. DeSantis also noted that Florida has jurisdiction over the case and could bring appropriate charges beyond the federal level.
The governor expressed confidence that state law had been violated and that further charges might follow as the investigation unfolds. “Of course, they have to investigate and prove it up, and they have to get the charges filed and agreed to go forward, but I think they can do that,” DeSantis added.
This state investigation comes as Trump continues his 2024 presidential campaign as the Republican nominee. While no shots were fired in the incident, the attempt underscores the potential security threats facing high-profile political figures during the election season.
