Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California, was formally charged Monday in federal court with attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The charges include attempted assassination, multiple firearms offenses, and assault on a federal officer, according to U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro. Allen made his first appearance in court wearing a blue prison jumpsuit and was flanked by U.S. Marshals. A judge ordered him held in custody until a detention hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Authorities say Allen, a Caltech graduate and high school tutor, traveled from California by train to Washington, D.C., checked into the Washington Hilton, and attempted to breach security at the high-profile gala on Saturday night. He was stopped after firing two shots near the ballroom where President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other top officials were present. No attendees were seriously injured. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the incident as a “massive security success story” but acknowledged ongoing questions about security protocols, since Allen was able to bring multiple weapons past security checks. Allen was found with a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives, all of which had been legally purchased in California within the last couple of years, according to law enforcement sources.
Officials are also investigating a manifesto allegedly written by Allen and sent to his family before the attack. The document, which was flagged to local police in Connecticut by a relative after the shooting occurred, reportedly detailed threats against Trump administration officials and criticized event security. President Trump confirmed the existence of the manifesto and said it would be released to the public. The FBI is examining Allen’s writings and electronic devices as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspect’s family and neighbors in Torrance expressed shock and described Allen as quiet and reclusive. Torrance Mayor George K. Chen condemned the violence and reassured the public that there are no known threats to the community. Meanwhile, President Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for their response, stating, “I wasn’t worried. I understand life. We live in a crazy world,” during a televised interview. He urged unity and called for a rescheduling of the event.
As the investigation continues, federal officials are reviewing security procedures at high-profile events, and Allen is scheduled for further court proceedings later this week.
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