67 judges are receiving enhanced online security screening due to high-profile cases

The increase in in high-profile cases this year has led to 67 judges being provided “enhanced” security measures by the US Marshals Service and the office that runs the federal judiciary, according to a letter to Congress seeking additional funds.

The increase in in high-profile cases this year has led to 67 judges being provided “enhanced” security measures by the US Marshals Service and the office that runs the federal judiciary, according to a letter to Congress seeking additional funds. The Judicial Conference outlined the threat in a letter to House Appropriates Committee warning of a funding shortfall and asking for money for court security. “Currently, 67 judges are receiving enhanced online security screening services provided by the Administrative Office and U.S. Marshals Service due to the judges’ involvement in high-profile cases or rulings that have garnered attention in the media and on social media platforms,” the letter said. Additionally, the US Marshals have had to take, “extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of judges,” in some cases. “We have significant concerns about our ability to properly secure federal courthouses given current resource levels,” the letter said, signed by Chair of the Committee on the Budget Amy J. St Eve and Secretary Robert J. Conrad Jr. “The Judicial Branch requested $797 million for Court Security in its December 2024 funding appeal,” the letter states. “Consecutive years of flat security funding comes at a time when threats against federal judges and courthouses are escalating, making this situation unsustainable in the current environment.”