WHCD shooter pleads not guilty as Torrance teacher denies Trump assassination plot
WASHINGTON, DC: Cole Allen, a 31-year-old former educator from Torrance, California, entered a formal plea of not guilty in DC federal court on Monday, May 11.
The charges stem from an unprecedented security breach on April 25 at the Washington Hilton, where Allen is accused of attempting to assassinate President Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
The federal indictment lists several felony counts, including assault on law enforcement, transporting a firearm across state lines to commit a felony, and discharging a weapon during a crime of violence.
NEW: WHCD shooter Cole Allen was indicted Tuesday on a new charge for allegedly firing at a Secret Service agent.
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) May 5, 2026
He was already facing attempted assassination of the president and gun charges, and is now also charged with assaulting a federal officer. He could face life in… pic.twitter.com/7LSytw8Ovu
Prosecutors allege that Allen opened fire during the annual black-tie gala, striking a Secret Service agent in his protective vest before being wrestled to the ground.
If convicted on all counts, the former teacher faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Defense challenges presence of top prosecutors
Attorneys representing Allen have launched a strategic legal offensive, demanding the recusal of Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
The defense argues that because both high-ranking officials were in attendance at the dinner alongside other cabinet members, they are essentially witnesses to the event.
This personal proximity to the alleged crime, the defense claims, creates an inherent conflict of interest that should prevent them from leading the prosecution against Allen.
Suspect remained under close psychiatric watch
Following the chaos at the Washington Hilton, Allen was reportedly held under suicide watch by federal authorities.
This measure was implemented immediately following his arrest and the alleged exchange of gunfire with the Secret Service.
While the defense focuses on shifting the prosecutorial team, the court must now determine if the involvement of officials who were present during the assassination attempt compromises the integrity of the trial.
Beyond the mental health protocols, the government is highlighting the gravity of transporting a weapon across state lines, specifically for this act.
The prosecution intends to present forensic evidence and testimony from the ballroom floor to underscore the calculated nature of the breach.
