Lawyers representing Cole Tomas Allen, the man accused of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump, have asked a judge to remove him from suicide watch at a detention facility in Washington, arguing that the continued restrictions are excessive and no longer medically justified.
Allen was taken into custody after allegedly forcing his way through a security checkpoint and opening fire outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25. Following his arrest, he was initially placed in a highly controlled “safe cell,” which court documents describe as a padded environment under constant surveillance, where he was required to wear a restrictive safety garment designed to prevent self-harm.
Although he was later shifted to suicide precautions rather than full isolation, his legal team says the conditions remain severe. These measures include continuous monitoring, strict limits on movement, and a near-total restriction on communication, preventing him from making phone calls or receiving visitors other than his attorneys. He is also only allowed to leave his cell under escort for essential activities such as legal consultations or basic hygiene.
According to the defence filing, a medical professional had recommended that the heightened precautions be lifted, but the restrictions were still in place during a subsequent legal visit. His attorneys argue that continuing these conditions despite clinical advice amounts to unnecessary punishment rather than legitimate safety protocol.
They also contend that the restrictions are interfering with basic rights, including the ability to communicate with family members through available jail systems, and are limiting access to standard facilities provided to detainees. The defence has framed the situation as a matter of due process and humane treatment rather than security necessity.
Allen is currently facing multiple serious federal charges, including attempted assassination, use of a firearm during a violent crime, and illegal transport of weapons across state lines. Court proceedings are ongoing, and he has not yet entered a formal plea in the case.
