US: Rise in threats to federal judges prompts calls for stronger protection

The US Marshals Service investigated 373 threats against judges in the first five months of 2025, nearly matching the 509 cases recorded in all of 2024, according to data shared by US District Judge Esther Salas of New Jersey. The threats this year have targeted 277 judges, some repeatedly, compared with 379 judges over the whole of last year.

Some judges and their families have even received anonymous pizza deliveries, an intimidation tactic. Judges handling Trump-related cases are among the targets.

US District Judge Esther Salas, whose son was murdered in 2020 by a disgruntled lawyer, is leading calls for reform. Despite round-the-clock security for some, critics warn current protections are insufficient.

Judges have faced threats from across the political spectrum, leading to round-the-clock security at Supreme Court justices’ homes following the 2022 decision by the conservative majority to overturn the constitutional right to abortion. Additional protection was also provided last year to judges overseeing Donald Trump’s since-dismissed criminal cases.

Experts are urging for more marshals, upgraded courthouse security, and restrictions on disclosing judges’ personal details. Some advocate moving the US Marshals Service from the Justice Department to the judiciary to safeguard independence.

Funding also remains a key concern. With flat budgets and rising threats, former Marshals chief Ronald Davis said: “Whoever is sitting in my former chair has now got to rob Peter to pay Paul.”

Judges and lawmakers alike say the rhetoric surrounding the judiciary – particularly from Trump allies – is fuelling hostility. “Judicial independence is essential to constitutional democracy, and judicial independence is in danger if the judges aren’t safe,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin.