Judicial Homicides Research By Robiner and Borgida

Abstract

We conducted a systematic review of the incidence of homicides of U.S. judges to date. The psychological impact of violence on judges and, organizationally, how the judicial system responds to the threat of judicial homicide, remains a critical public policy issue. We reviewed various databases, news accounts, and the National Violent Death Reporting System to identify and compile cases of homicides of judges. Since the 1800s, 55 cases of homicides of judges were identified. Three cases, including one unique case, of judicial homicide were identified through the National Violent Death Reporting System (2003-2021) reflecting the relative newness of the database and incomplete state of reporting as well as the relative rarity of judicial homicides. Among these homicides, nearly all decedents were men. More than half of the homicides appeared to have a connection to work. Firearms were the most common method of attack. Although violence is not uncommon in U.S. courts, homicides of judges remain are relatively rare. Homicide nevertheless is an occupational hazard and potential threat for judges making it essential that public policy and effective security measures be employed to safeguard judges along with strategies for mitigating stress and providing coping resources for judges. We advocate for the development of a comprehensive national database that would be an invaluable data-driven resource for gauging risk and refining risk management policies in the judicial system. Such a database could be instrumental in proactively decreasing the incidence of homicides of judges.