A California man, Nicholas John Roske, has pleaded guilty to attempting to murder U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. The Justice Department announced the plea on Tuesday. Roske, 29, traveled from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., with the intention of harming the justice.
Federal prosecutors stated that Roske arrived in the nation's capital on June 7, 2022, carrying a firearm and ammunition in his luggage. Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the act, calling it a severe attack on the court. She emphasized that those who attempt to influence the courts through violence will face the full force of the law, potentially resulting in life imprisonment.
Roske took a taxi to Montgomery County, Maryland, with the aim of killing Kavanaugh. On June 8, 2022, around 1:05 a.m., U.S. Marshals guarding Kavanaugh's home observed Roske approaching the residence. He was dressed in black and carried a backpack and suitcase.
The U.S. Marshals confronted Roske as he walked down the street. Shortly after, Roske contacted the Montgomery County Emergency Communications Center, expressing homicidal and suicidal thoughts. He revealed he had a gun in his suitcase and had traveled from California to kill Kavanaugh.
Local authorities responded and searched Roske's suitcase, discovering a firearm, tactical gear, ammunition, pepper spray, zip ties, tools, and other items. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes stated that the attempted assassination was an extreme act that would not be tolerated.
During questioning, Roske cited his anger over a recent Supreme Court draft decision concerning abortion rights and the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting as his motivations. Prosecutors also revealed that Roske had used an encrypted platform to send messages indicating his plan to kill multiple Supreme Court justices. Roske faces a potential life sentence when he is sentenced on October 3.
9 Comments
Rotfront
Let's focus on resolving our issues through debate, not through horrific actions like this. This is not the way to go.
Karamba
It's sad that it came to this, but we have to be strict about threats against public figures to deter future incidents.
Matzomaster
It's concerning how heated discussions around politics can lead to this type of violence. We need to unite against it!
Rotfront
our rights come with responsibilities, and violence is never the answer!
Karamba
It’s tragic that he thought this was a solution. Violence will only lead to more anger and division.
Answer
The anger over court decisions doesn't justify threatening lives. It's great to see justice being served!
The Truth
This is just another example of how political rhetoric is pushing people to violence. We need to hold leaders accountable for their words!
Raphael
I'm relieved to hear that the authorities intervened before any harm could be done. Safety must come first!
Mariposa
People need to learn that you can't impose your beliefs on others through threats or violence. Shame on Roske!