Judges at Risk: A Review of Homicides of U.S. Judges.

Abstract

We identified 54 homicides of U.S. judges since the 1800s through news accounts, databases, and the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). Most (92.6%) decedents were men. More than half of the homicides had a connection to work. Firearms were the most common attack method. Although violence is relatively common in U.S. courts, homicides of judges are rare. Homicide nevertheless is an occupational hazard and potential threat for judges necessitating effective security measures to safeguard judges in and outside of courts. We advocate for the development of a comprehensive national database for refining risk management strategies throughout the judicial system. The psychological impact of violence, and how the judicial system responds to threats of judicial homicide, are public policy issues warranting additional study and resources.