Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh

Retired FBI agent Scott Duffey delves into the complex motivations and history of Ryan Routh, the man accused of plotting to assassinate former President Donald Trump.

Ryan Routh, the suspect in the foiled assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, exhibited a "clear mental illness component" that fueled his actions, according to retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent Scott Duffey. Routh's lengthy criminal record and frequent police interactions suggest a pattern of attention-seeking behavior and a desire to provoke law enforcement.

Duffey believes that Routh's mental state may have played a role in a past incident where he barricaded himself with a rifle inside his roofing business. This episode could have resulted in a sentencing deferral or intensive treatment program that influenced his subsequent behavior.

Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh

Routh's social media posts indicate a volatile mindset and a shift from support for Trump to intense criticism. He expressed support for Iran's potential assassination of both himself and Trump. Notably, Routh is a pro-Ukraine activist who has volunteered in the conflict and sought Afghan veterans to join the fight.

While political speech is generally protected, Duffey cautions that social media ramblings are often associated with mass shootings. He emphasizes the need to identify individuals like Routh who demonstrate concerning tendencies and provide them with mental health support.

Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh

Routh's history of run-ins with police dates back to the 1980s and includes charges ranging from writing bad checks to possessing a weapon of mass destruction in 2002. Despite these incidents, he managed to avoid significant consequences, potentially due to mental health defenses.

In Guilford County, North Carolina, where Routh previously resided, retired police officer Eric Rasecke described Routh as entitled and disrespectful towards law enforcement. Rasecke witnessed Routh's frequent interactions with police and noted his defiance and avoidance of accountability.

Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh

Routh's personal life was also marked by difficulties, including a divorce and lawsuits related to his roofing company. These stressors may have contributed to his psychological instability and erratic behavior.

Duffey suggests that Routh may have engaged in a "cat and mouse game" with law enforcement, seeking attention through repeated encounters and provocations. He believes that Routh's actions aimed to manipulate or test the response of the authorities.

Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh

Routh's arrest on September 15, 2024, revealed a gun believed to be his that was found near Trump International Golf Club. The charges against him include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

Routh's attorney has not responded to requests for comment. The complexities of his mental state, his history of police interactions, and his political activism raise troubling questions about the motivations and potential consequences of his actions.

Inside the Troubled Mind of Would-Be Trump Assassin Ryan Routh