Trending Now - Federal Judges Report Surge in Violent Threats Against Them

WHO:

U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts

U.S. District Judge Mark Norris (Tennessee)

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes (Washington)

U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee

U.S. District Judge Michelle Williams Court

Speak up for Justice (nonpartisan group)

U.S. Marshals Service

WHAT:

Federal judges reported a rise in threats against the judiciary.

The U.S. Marshals Service reported 564 threats in the fiscal year ending in September 2025, an increase from the previous year.

Judges read profane death threats during a forum on March 19th, 2026.

Judge Reyes read death threats she received after blocking the Trump administration from ending temporary immigration protections for Haitians.

Judge Gee read messages that threatened to kill her at home, one of which led to an indictment.

WHERE:

The forum took place in Washington, D.C.

Judge Mark Norris resides in rural Tennessee.

WHEN:

The forum occurred on March 19th, 2026.

The fiscal year for the U.S. Marshals Service ended in September 2025.

Judge Reyes read threats during a court hearing in February 2026.

WHY:

The forum aimed to highlight rising attacks on the judiciary and the dangers of personal criticism of judges.

Chief Justice Roberts condemned personal criticism of federal judges, stating it is dangerous and “it’s got to stop.”

HOW:

Judges have begun to publicly discuss personal threats and attacks, which is unusual for them.

Judges are receiving unsolicited pizzas delivered to their homes, often in the name of Daniel Anderl, the slain son of a federal judge.

(UPDATED March 20, 2026 09:10 UTC)

In a concerning forum held in Washington, D.C. on March 19, federal judges, including Chief Justice John Roberts, reported a significant rise in threats against the judiciary, with the U.S. Marshals Service documenting 564 threats in the last fiscal year, an increase from the previous year. Judges shared alarming personal experiences, with Judge Reyes recounting death threats she received after blocking the Trump administration's efforts to end temporary immigration protections for Haitians, and Judge Gee revealing threats that led to an indictment. Chief Justice Roberts condemned the personal criticism of judges as dangerous, emphasizing that this behavior must come to an end.