Suspect charged with attempting to assassinate Trump at Washington dinner
On Monday, Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California, faced charges for allegedly attempting to kill President Donald Trump by firing a weapon at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, a prestigious event attended by journalists and politicians. Known as the 'Friendly Federal Assassin,' Allen could receive a life sentence if found guilty. Authorities thwarted the attack just two days prior to his court appearance. During the hearing, prosecutor Jocelyn Ballantine revealed that Allen had brought a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun along with three knives to the event. US Marshals escorted him into and out of the courtroom with his hands restrained behind his back.
Key facts
- Cole Tomas Allen charged with attempting to assassinate Donald Trump
- Allen is 31 years old from Torrance, California
- Incident occurred at White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner
- Allen referred to himself as 'Friendly Federal Assassin'
- Could face life sentence if convicted
- Appeared in Washington federal court on Monday
- Prosecutor Jocelyn Ballantine detailed weapons: 12-gauge pump-action shotgun and three knives
- Allen's hands were cuffed during court appearance
Entities
Institutions
- White House Correspondents’ Association
- US Marshals
Locations
- Washington
- Torrance
- California