A federal judge ruled on Monday that top prosecutors will remain involved in the case against Cole Allen, who is accused of attempting to assassinate President Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on April 25. If convicted, Allen faces a potential life sentence.
Allen's defense team sought to disqualify Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, claiming their presence at the event posed a conflict of interest. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden rejected this request, stating in an 18-page opinion that the prosecutors are unlikely to be trial witnesses and do not meet the legal definition of victims. He further noted that their relationships with the President do not warrant their removal from the case.
The defense also expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest stemming from statements made by Pirro and Blanche, but Judge McFadden dismissed these claims. In a related development, Pirro criticized Magistrate Judge Zia Faruqui for his handling of the case, particularly regarding Allen's treatment in custody.
Allen faces four federal charges, including attempting to assassinate the President and assaulting a federal officer. He allegedly distributed a manifesto expressing his intentions, although it did not specify targets by name. Allen is one of four individuals charged with attempting to assassinate President Trump, with the others either deceased or currently incarcerated.