LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Experts are expressing growing concern over violence against U.S. judges, following a disturbing incident where a defendant brutally attacked a Nevada judge in court. The attack, which was captured on video and went viral on social media, occurred after the judge denied the defendant probation.
Former senior deputy district attorney for the 18th Judicial District of Colorado, Kevin Ellmann, highlighted a concerning trend towards lawlessness, stating that there seems to be a lack of accountability for those who act out with violence against others. He pointed to bond reform and lack of prosecution policies as contributing factors to such actions.
Ellmann also emphasized the need for public accountability for unacceptable attacks on the justice system, warning that without consequences, these types of attacks will only increase in frequency and violence.
Retired Lt. Randy Sutton, a 30-year law enforcement veteran, noted that while physical attacks against judges in the courtroom are relatively rare due to the presence of security personnel, there have been incidents of attacks and threats against judges outside of the courtroom.
According to the U.S. Marshals Service, there were approximately 4,500 threats made against U.S. judges in 2022, with some cases resulting in tragic outcomes. For instance, a Maryland man was named as a suspect in the murder of a 52-year-old judge just hours after a judgment hearing in the suspect’s divorce case.
The concern for the safety of judges has prompted action, with President Biden recently signing into law the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act, which aims to protect judges’ safety by safeguarding their personal information. However, there are calls for additional measures to ensure the safety and protection of judges in and out of the courtroom to prevent targeted crimes against them.
In conclusion, attacks against judges are raising alarms among legal experts and law enforcement, prompting calls for greater accountability and measures to protect the safety of judges. The disturbing trend of violence against judges underscores the need for comprehensive efforts to address and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.