JUNO DISTRICT, Wisconsin – John Roemer, a retired Wisconsin judge, was fatally shot dead at his home in Juno County by a man identified by authorities as Douglas Ude, 56, who Roemer sentenced to prison in a 2001 burglary case. Uhde shot himself and died at the hospital. Five days after Roemer’s murder, a man carrying a pistol, knife and zipper ties was arrested Wednesday, June 8, near the home of Supreme Court Justice Brett Cavanaugh in Maryland after threatening to kill justice.
These threats and attacks have brought judicial security to the fore.
Former Wisconsin Supreme Court judge Janine Geske has said security has always been an issue, but fears judges are now embroiled in political battles, putting them at risk.
They are the people who make some of the most important decisions that determine the fate of those who sit in their courtrooms.
“The judiciary is becoming more important, not less,” said Justis Geske, a law professor at Market University.
In a matter of days, violence and threats of violence showed how the lives of judges are in danger.
“It’s scary because there really is very little protection for judges,” Judge Geske said.
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Geske has served as a judge in Milwaukee County for more than a decade.
“My career, I’ve had a few in which cops slept in my living room,” Geske said. “Another moment when we took the kids out of school and left the area.”
She said that while threats have always been there, today’s climate could ignite flames.
“I am now concerned that the judges are involved in the political, guerrilla battles that are being fought, in addition to being criticized for certain opinions,” Judge Geske said.
Judges do not receive additional security.
Security expert Brian Dorow said high-ranking officials must have a plan now, more than ever.
“You have to have targeted hardening during your work, all day long,” Dorow said.
There is now an increased focus on protecting law-abiding people.
“If people are afraid to take a position, if people do not have faith in these judges, then our system is falling apart,” Judge Geske said.
Milwaukee Chief Justice Mary Trigiano issued the statement to FOX6 News:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend as a result of an act of horrific violence in his home. Our dedicated women and men in our judiciary must be able to make honest and fair decisions without fear of reprisals or physical injury. We call for such tragedies to take action to improve security. As such, we continue to work with law enforcement and others to ensure that judges, court commissioners and all judicial staff are safe. At present, and with great care, I am not commenting on any specific security efforts. However, we are focused on increasing personal and courtroom security and specific training for our judicial family. “
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