Ryan Wesley Routh has entered a plea to charges including attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

Routh, aged 58, appeared in federal court in West Palm Beach, facing serious accusations stemming from an incident at Trump International Golf Club, counts to which he has now pleaded not guilty, as the Daily Mail reports.

On Sept. 15, Routh allegedly staked out Trump's location with a rifle, an action that quickly brought the Secret Service into play.

Charged with attempting to assassinate the former President, Routh now faces five total federal counts

During his court appearance, it was ordered that Routh would remain incarcerated without the possibility of bail pending his trial, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.

Detailed Account of the Arrest and Charges

The events unfolded rapidly when a Secret Service agent, stationed at the golf course, noticed Routh concealing himself near a fence line. The situation escalated when the agent spotted the barrel of a rifle, prompting him to open fire.

Routh managed to escape the immediate vicinity, but not before being identified by a witness. This witness observed Routh running toward a parked vehicle, a sighting that later aided law enforcement in tracking him down and securing his arrest.

Authorities who later searched Routh’s vehicle discovered a variety of incriminating items. These included multiple cellphones, gloves, and a notebook filled with international contacts and notes on Trump’s schedule, suggesting a premeditated plan.

Controversial Letter Sparks Debate

Further complicating Routh’s case is a letter found by authorities in which he admits to the failed assassination attempt. In this letter, addressed ambiguously to "the world," Routh criticizes Trump's foreign policy decisions, particularly towards Iran, and shockingly offers a bounty for the completion of his initial intent.

Attorney General Merrick Garland has faced criticism for the decision to make this letter public.

However, Garland defended what he said was appropriate transparency, citing the public’s right to understand the seriousness of the threat posed by Routh.

The disclosed letter includes inflammatory statements where Routh claims Trump lacks the moral integrity required of a U.S. president, describing the need for a president to be "kind, caring, and selfless." These remarks have ignited further debate regarding the accused's motives and state of mind.

Law Enforcement Response and Evidence Collection

Following the incident, a tip from a concerned citizen led to the discovery of additional evidence. This individual contacted authorities regarding a box Routh had left at their house, which, upon examination, was found to contain ammunition and another letter outlining his murderous intent.

This subsequent discovery provided more context to Routh’s preparations and mindset leading up to the attempted attack.

The materials found were consistent with someone who had meticulously planned a significant criminal act.

The list of Trump’s public appearances and the Google searches for escape routes to Mexico found among Routh’s possessions paint a picture of a carefully planned endeavor to disrupt national peace.

Public and Legal Repercussions

The fallout from this event extends beyond the courtroom. Public opinion is polarized, with some viewing Routh’s actions as those of a disturbed individual, while others see it as a reflection of the intense political divisions within the country.

As the trial approaches, both the defense and prosecution are preparing for a case that has attracted national attention. Routh’s not-guilty plea sets the stage for a legal battle that will delve deeply into his motives and the broader implications of his actions on political security.

This case continues to develop as more details emerge from the investigation, ensuring that it will remain in the public and media spotlight for the foreseeable future.