Appeal filed: man convicted in Trump golf club assassination plot challenges life term

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — Ryan Routh, convicted of plotting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club, has launched an appeal against his life sentence, claiming his high-stakes trial was riddled with flaws.

The brief document, submitted on Sunday to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, states that Routh plans to challenge both his conviction and sentence.

Routh was sentenced to life in prison on February 4, after being convicted on five counts, which included attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

He also faced charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

See also: Ryan Routh sentenced to life after being convicted of trying to assassinate Pres. Trump

During the trial, courtroom sketches and testimonies revealed that Routh had used military-style tactics to conceal himself in the bushes, employing camouflage gear, bug spray, and even diapers to stay hidden for long periods. Prosecutors argued that his actions were premeditated, resembling sniper operations aimed at assassinating Trump.

FBI experts testified that DNA found on the rifle and other items strongly matched Routh, solidifying the prosecution’s case against him.

Routh represented himself in court and questioned various witnesses about the weapon’s range and the forensic evidence that linked him to the crime scene.