Attorneys general from 43 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia have collectively urged Congress to bolster financial support for judicial security, citing a surge in threats against judges. Their appeal emphasizes the necessity of funding programs that enable judges to remove personal information from online databases, thereby enhancing their safety.
This call to action aligns with previous concerns raised by federal judges regarding the adequacy of current security measures. In a letter to congressional appropriators, Judges Amy J. St. Eve and Robert J. Conrad Jr. highlighted the escalating harassment faced by the judiciary. They noted that over 60 judges connected to high-profile cases have required enhanced online security to protect their personal data. The judges also pointed out that the U.S. Marshals Service has had to implement extraordinary security steps, including addressing incidents like unwanted deliveries to judges’ homes and threats against family members. They warned that the existing security funding falls nearly $50 million short of what is needed, describing the situation as unsustainable. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/bd2a28dacd847845b1ffc430162a8985?utm_source=openai))
The attorneys general’s letter underscores the bipartisan recognition of the critical need to protect the judiciary from increasing threats. They advocate for comprehensive measures, including the allocation of resources to programs that allow judges to remove their personal information from public access, thereby mitigating potential risks.
As threats against judicial figures reach unprecedented levels, the collective stance of the attorneys general serves as a compelling call for Congress to prioritize and enhance judicial security measures, ensuring the safety and independence of the nation’s judiciary.