#USA #Los Angeles #Speak Up for Justice #State Judges #Judicial Independence

Concerning Trends in Judicial Safety

On September 25, a significant virtual forum titled "Unprotected and Under Fire: State Judges at Risk as Congress Weighs Action" will unveil pressing issues regarding the safety of state judges across America. This event, organized by Speak Up for Justice, will bring together sitting judges who have been victims of death threats, swatting incidents, and violent harassment, showcasing how these threats endanger not only the judges but their families and the rule of law itself.

The forum marks a crucial moment as it is the first of its kind where judges will openly discuss their harrowing experiences. Notably, Judge Jennifer J. Johnson from Florida has received numerous threats over the years, with her nightmare culminating in a deeply disturbing deepfake AI video that depicted her violent murder. This chilling creation underscores the terrifying potential of technology in its misuse by extremists to instill fear and disrupt judicial proceedings.

The stark reality highlighted by Judge Johnson's case illustrates a broader security gap impacting the nation’s 30,000 state judges, who are responsible for 95% of the U.S. court cases yet lack federal security protections. This forum aims to elevate awareness of the threats faced by these judges as they fulfill their duties to uphold justice.

The discussion will include various speakers:

• - Judge Carroll J. Kelly from Florida, who has faced personal threats, including cyberattacks and stalking, leading law enforcement to provide her constant protection.
• - Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez from Colorado, who along with her family, experienced severe intimidation after a high-profile ruling regarding former President Trump. Her experience of harassment integrated with personal toll will serve as a point of discussion.
• - U.S. Senator Chris Coons of Delaware, who co-sponsored the bipartisan Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act. This legislative initiative aspires to establish a resource center dedicated to monitoring threats to state judges and enhancing their security.

The forum will discuss the alarming increase in threats against judges, with reports indicating 513 threats recorded this year, surpassing last year’s total. Law enforcement and legal professionals are encouraged to attend this pivotal event that aims to spark necessary legislative action to safeguard judicial independence and security.

Concluding the forum is a call to action for concerned citizens, legal professionals, and community members to join the movement advocating for judicial protection. This urgent dialogue underscores the critical intersection of law, safety, and democracy.

For additional details and registration, individuals are encouraged to visit www.SpeakUpForJustice.law and contribute their voice in support of judicial integrity and safety.