A California man accused of attempting to assassinate US President Donald Trump during last month’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner has pleaded not guilty to federal charges.
The suspect, 31-year-old Cole Allen, entered the plea on Monday during a court appearance in Washington, DC, according to multiple US media reports.
Allen appeared before the federal court wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs.
He is facing four serious charges linked to the April 25 shooting incident at a downtown Washington hotel where the annual White House press gala was held.
Prosecutors said Allen travelled from California to the US capital by train with several weapons, including a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives.
Authorities described him as a highly educated teacher and engineer.
He has been charged with attempted assassination of the president, transporting firearms and ammunition across state lines with intent to commit a felony, using a firearm during a violent crime, and assaulting a federal officer. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
Investigators said the suspect never got close to Trump or other guests at the event. The president was immediately evacuated by Secret Service agents after gunshots rang out inside the venue.
According to prosecutors, Allen was quickly subdued and arrested after forcing his way through a security checkpoint while armed. During the confrontation, a Secret Service officer reportedly opened fire but did not hit him.
The White House Correspondents’ dinner is an annual event attended by journalists, politicians, celebrities and senior government officials.
Although Trump had previously skipped the event during past terms, he chose to attend this year’s gathering.
The incident marked the third alleged assassination attempt against the 79-year-old president in less than two years.
Trump survived an attack during a 2024 campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman killed one audience member and grazed the president’s ear with a bullet.
Months later, another armed suspect was arrested near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach while he was playing.
