The man accused of attempting to attack President Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner pleaded not guilty Monday to federal charges, including attempted assassination and assaulting a federal officer.
Allen appeared briefly in federal court Monday, where one of his attorneys entered the plea on his behalf. His legal team is seeking to remove at least two senior Justice Department officials from involvement in the prosecution, arguing Acting AG Todd Blanche and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who attended the event, could be considered victims or witnesses in the case, creating a possible conflict of interest.
Defense attorney Eugene Ohm indicated the request could expand to seeking the recusal of Pirro’s entire office. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden did not immediately rule and asked the defense to further explain the scope of the request.
Allen also faces additional firearms charges and a count accusing him of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon. The attempted assassination charge alone carries a possible life sentence if convicted. He is scheduled to return to court June 29.
