A man charged with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a press gala in Washington D.C. has agreed to remain in custody while his federal criminal case proceeds. Cole Tomas Allen, 31, appeared in federal court on Thursday and, through his attorney, did not contest prosecutors' arguments that he poses a danger to the community.
Allen allegedly stormed a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton hotel during the annual White House Correspondents' Association dinner, where Trump, first lady Melania Trump, and several cabinet members were present. He fired a shotgun outside the ballroom doors, prompting chaos as Secret Service agents evacuated the president and other officials.
Prosecutors allege that Allen carefully planned the attack, traveling by train from his home in Torrance, California, armed with a shotgun, a .38-caliber pistol, knives, and daggers. They claim he was willing to commit a mass shooting targeting top U.S. officials. A legal filing stated that Allen sent an email to relatives on the night of the shooting referring to Trump as a traitor and a criminal, though not by name, and indicated intent to target administration officials.
Allen faces charges of attempted assassination, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally transporting firearms and ammunition across state lines. He has not yet entered a plea. His defense lawyers have highlighted flaws in the government's case, including whether Allen shot a Secret Service agent as initially claimed. Prosecutors have not alleged in court that Allen shot the agent, who was struck by gunfire but protected by a ballistic vest.
Allen's defense team noted he has no prior arrests or convictions and is an active member of his Christian church family. The court hearing concluded with Allen remaining in custody as the case moves forward.
