Ryan Routh, the 58-year-old man arrested after allegedly attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, was charged in a West Palm Beach federal court on Monday with two firearms violations.
Mr. Routh, who has so far refused to talk to police following his arrest on Sunday, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. He faces additional charges related to the alleged assassination attempt.
Mr. Routh appeared in court with shackled hands, according to news reports. He smiled and laughed as he talked to his attorney, according to Fox News producers who were inside the courtroom.
Mr. Routh was arrested after the Secret Service spotted the tip of his semi-automatic weapon pointing out of a bush just a few hundred yards from where Mr. Trump was playing at the Trump International Golf Club.
He has an extensive rap sheet and appears to dislike Mr. Trump and supports liberal causes. Authorities said he fled the scene, leaving his gun, backpack and scope behind.
Mr. Routh was arrested by the Secret Service after leading authorities on a car chase.
SEE ALSO: Trump blames rhetoric from Democrats for the repeated attempts on his life
• Susan Ferrechio can be reached at sferrechio@washingtontimes.com.
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