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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedSeptember 1, 2026Miami-Dade

Federal judges increase personal security measures following rise in threats

Federal judges are increasingly utilizing private security, altering daily commute routines, and installing home safety equipment like panic buttons in response to a surge in harassment and threats. Two new studies highlight the growing anxiety among the judiciary regarding their personal safety.

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Why It Matters

The increased security measures reflect a shift in the daily operations and personal lives of federal judges as they navigate a heightened threat environment.

Key Facts

  • Federal judges are increasingly hiring private security to ensure their safety.
  • Judges are changing their daily commute routes to avoid potential threats.
  • Home fortification measures, including the installation of panic buttons, are being implemented by judges.
  • Two new studies document the rise in threats and harassment directed at federal judges.
  • Many federal judges report feeling anxious about their personal safety due to recent trends.

Who's Mentioned

personGowri Ramachandran“Director of elections and security at the Brennan Center and co-author of the se”personAmrit Singh“Director of the Rule of Law Lab at NYU and lead author of one of the studies.”other35“Number of sitting and retired federal judges interviewed for the Brennan Center ”organizationNew York University“Academic institution conducting research on judicial threats.”personFederal judges“The subjects of the security reports.”personDaniel Anderl“Son of Judge Esther Salas, killed by a litigant in 2020.”organizationBrennan Center for Justice“Organization conducting research on judicial threats.”personEsther Salas“U.S. District Judge who participated in the studies and shared personal experien”other32“Number of active district and appellate judges interviewed for the NYU-Berkeley ”personDonald Trump“Former President whose rhetoric regarding judges is cited as a factor in judicia”