FBI Launches Investigation into Reported Threats Against Colorado Judges in Trump Case
The FBI is actively investigating reports of violent threats made against Colorado judges involved in the case regarding the removal of Donald Trump from the state's 2024 presidential ballot Collaborating with local law enforcement, the FBI aims to ensure the safety and security of the Supreme Court justices
The FBI is collaborating with Colorado law enforcement following threats against state Supreme Court justices who voted to remove Donald Trump from the 2024 presidential ballot.
"FBI Public Affairs Officer, Vikki Migoya, stated that the FBI is aware of the situation and is working with local law enforcement," as reported by CNN on Monday. "We are committed to thoroughly investigating any threats or acts of violence committed by individuals who use extremist ideologies to justify their actions, regardless of their motives."
A spokesperson for the Colorado Judicial Branch declined to comment on the reported threats to the justices. A message left with the Denver Police Department was not returned on Monday afternoon. Master Trooper Gary Cutler, a spokesman for the Colorado State Patrol, stated that any threats against judges would be handled by local authorities. In addition to federal response, state and local law enforcement officials, as well as non-government research groups, have been monitoring extremist online forums for indications that the rhetoric could lead to actual threats against public officials.
The four Colorado Supreme Court justices who voted to disqualify Trump from the ballot have been mentioned in "incendiary" online posts calling for the exposure of their personal data, according to a non-partisan research organization's analysis obtained by CNN for US law enforcement agencies. Although no specific threats were found, the analysis warned of a potential risk of lone actor or small group violence or other illegal activities in response to the ruling.
A user on a far-right, pro-Trump website shared a post stating, "All corrupt individuals must be held accountable," in an apparent reference to the Colorado justices. This kind of online activity has been observed before, following federal indictments of Trump, with vague threats of civil unrest and violent language, but no clear action plans.
Last week, the Colorado Supreme Court made an unprecedented ruling, deciding 4-3 that Trump does not meet the eligibility requirements for a presidential candidate due to the 14th Amendment's "insurrectionist ban." As a result, he will not be able to appear on the state's ballot for the GOP primary scheduled for March 5. Trump has filed an appeal to the US Supreme Court, and the ruling will be put on hold until January 4 pending a decision from the higher court, potentially impacting the entire country.
Additionally, in a separate case, Trump has verbally lashed out at his courtroom adversaries and has been prohibited from discussing witnesses, prosecutors, and the court staff and their families.
Earlier this month, CNN reported on the increase in threats against public officials this year. This includes threats towards GOP members who were against Jim Jordan being named House Speaker and threats surrounding Trump's indictments. There were also threats against progressive Rep. Ilhan Omar following the outbreak of conflict between Hamas and Israel. Law enforcement officials are concerned about online rhetoric leading to real-life violence, especially after the January 6 Capitol riot. Prior to the riot, the attack was essentially planned on social media, but law enforcement failed to intervene. This information comes from a Senate report released in June.
