The alleged gunman at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton appeared in federal court in Washington on Monday and will face three felony charges, including attempted assassination of the president.
The 31-year-old, who was suspected of breaching a security checkpoint Saturday evening with multiple weapons, was also charged Monday with transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The attempted assassination charge is considered the heaviest, and could put him behind bars for life.
Allen was arrested at the Hilton Hotel on Saturday evening as the president, first lady and vice president sat on stage during a meal at the event and before any keynote speeches were made. During a half-hour court appearance before 2 p.m. ET Monday, Allen wore a light blue suit and spoke little, only to confirm his name and that he understood the proceedings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh.
During the arraignment, Judge Sherbaugh ruled that the suspect was entitled to court-appointed attorneys; This is based on a financial affidavit that Allen filed with the court.
The assassination attempt is considered a domestic terrorism charge and carries a possible penalty of up to life imprisonment. Judge Sherbaugh ordered unsealing of the criminal complaint against Allen. Once the case is revealed, officials will be able to update the nation about the case.
US prosecutors used this brief appearance to clarify some details of their case against Allen. Assistant US Attorney Jocelyn Ballantine said that Allen “traveled across multiple state lines with a firearm” and that he “attempted to assassinate the president with a 12-gauge shotgun.” They demanded that he be placed in federal custody.
Allen’s lawyers confirmed at the hearing that he had no prior criminal record.
More to come.
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