FORT PIERCE, Florida >> The man accused of attempting to kill President Donald Trump last year at his Florida golf course began his trial today and, facing the prospect of life in prison, opted to fire his legal team and defend himself in court.

Ryan Routh, 59, faces five charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate. Prosecutors alleged he concealed himself with a rifle near the sixth green of Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, intending to shoot Trump during a round of golf in the final weeks of the 2024 campaign.

A U.S. Secret Service agent spotted Routh hiding in the tree line and opened fire, prompting Routh to flee before he fired a shot, according to court documents.

Routh has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The trial in federal c

See Full Page