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Palm Beach, FL - The federal trial of Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club in 2024, continued with testimony from FBI digital and DNA experts.
Prosecutors presented evidence including alleged anti-Trump text messages and DNA links to key items recovered at the scene.
FBI digital forensic examiner Jerry Llanes testified that a Samsung phone found in Routh’s black Nissan Xterra contained WhatsApp messages expressing strong opposition to Trump.
In a February 3, 2024, exchange with a contact labeled "Ben," Routh allegedly wrote, "I hate him. Shan't get elected again."
Another message to a contact identified as "Captain Talk Recruiting" criticized Trump’s foreign policy decisions, including the Iran nuclear deal.
Llanes also cited images showing flight searches from Miami to Mexico and Bogotá, Colombia, and a photo appearing to depict a rifle tied to a tree.
FBI DNA examiner Kara Gregor testified that Routh’s DNA was strongly linked to several items including the rifle grip, a reddish-brown bag, a zip tie, a bungee cord, and a glove.
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She stated that the DNA results were "250 centillion times more likely" if the contributors included Routh and two unknown individuals, rather than three unknown individuals.
Routh, representing himself, cross-examined Gregor, questioning whether additional items, including a Colt .45 case, a golf tee, a blue flashlight, and a Sunny D bottle, were tested.
Gregor explained that many of those items were not tested or she could not recall.
The trial is proceeding quickly, with more forensic experts expected to testify.
Prosecutors are anticipated to conclude their case by the end of the week, with Routh scheduled to present his witnesses next week.