FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — This morning, jury selection begins in the trial of the man charged with trying to assassinate President Donald Trump last September.
Ryan Routh represented himself for the first time last week. There was some contention in court over new letters, new evidence, and even Routh’s clothes.
During the jury selection process, Routh can interview the men and women summoned to jury duty.
There are three groups of 60 to choose from. Ultimately, they need 12 jurors and four alternates.
Routh is charged with attempting to assassinate a political figure and weapons charges.
Prosecutors say Routh was hiding out in the perimeter of Trump International in West Palm Beach, waiting to shoot the then-former president while golfing. Secret service agents spotted him before that could happen.
Last week’s pre-trial conference was Routh’s last chance to settle any issues.
Judge Aileen Cannon denied multiple motions, including the exclusion of new evidence from the prosecution and the admission of new letters written by Routh.
Prosecutors provided more than 28 pages of evidence. Ruth only objected to a handful. Judge canon pushed a ruling on those objections.
The prosecution had objections of their own, including the addition of more than 10 witnesses from the defense and potential slogans on clothes Routh would wear during trial.
The delayed rulings could potentially slow down the jury selection process Monday. Opening statements are expected to start on Thursday.
