Public statements or press releases from Governor Ron DeSantis

Florida Charges Ryan Wesley Routh With Attempted Murder in Trump Assassination Attempt, Cites Federal Resistance

Dec 18, 2024, 03:45 PM

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has announced felony charges of attempted murder against Ryan Wesley Routh, who is accused of attempting to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump. The incident occurred in Palm Beach on Sept. 15, after which Routh fled north on Interstate 95, leading to a tragic accident in Martin County that severely injured a 6-year-old girl. Moody stated that the federal government has been uncooperative with Florida's investigation, refusing to allow access to the crime scene, evidence, or witness interviews. Despite this, Florida is pursuing state charges and has filed an arrest warrant in the 19th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis commended Moody's efforts, noting the federal resistance to the state's investigation but expressing optimism that the situation would change once Trump takes office on January 20th.