Credited from: INDIATIMES
Cole Allen, a 31-year-old man, pleaded not guilty on May 11 to charges including attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a recent White House Correspondents' Dinner. Appearing in court in an orange jumpsuit, Allen did not speak, as his lawyer submitted the plea on his behalf, according to Reuters and BBC.
The charges against Allen include not only attempted assassination but also assault on a federal officer and firearms offenses. Prosecutors allege that Allen stormed a security checkpoint carrying a shotgun and fired at a Secret Service agent, who fortunately wore a ballistic vest during the incident. This confrontation occurred on April 25 during the gala attended by numerous high-profile individuals, while Trump and other officials were promptly evacuated, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.
During the brief legal appearance before US District Judge Trevor McFadden, it was noted that Allen faces potential life imprisonment if convicted. The attorney for Allen is also seeking to disqualify certain officials, claiming their presence at the event may complicate the prosecution due to their status as potential victims, as detailed by South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.