Cole Allen, 31, of California, pleaded not guilty to all charges in federal court on Monday, May 11, 2026. The charges include attempted assassination of President Donald Trump, assault on a federal officer, and firearms offenses. Prosecutors allege Allen fired a shotgun at a Secret Service agent and stormed a security checkpoint during the White House Correspondents' Dinner on April 25. Allen allegedly traveled to Washington by train, carrying a shotgun, pistol, and knives, and booked a room at the Washington Hilton where the event took place.
Allen wore an orange jumpsuit and was shackled during the brief court proceeding. His attorney, Tezira Abe, entered the plea on his behalf. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden presided over the case. A different judge previously apologized to Allen for his treatment in a local Washington, D.C., jail, which included being placed on suicide precautions and isolated from other inmates.
Allen's defense team filed a motion to disqualify U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche from prosecuting the case, arguing a conflict of interest due to their attendance at the dinner. Judge McFadden asked for further elaboration on the scope of the recusal request. The defense also hinted at seeking to disqualify Pirro's entire office. Allen is scheduled to return to court on June 29.
Prosecutors allege Allen breached a security checkpoint at the hotel while armed with a shotgun and other weapons. A Secret Service officer was struck in the chest by gunfire but survived because of a ballistic vest. Investigators recovered weapons and other evidence connected to the alleged attack. Allen faces up to life in prison if convicted of the attempted assassination charge alone.