FBI Investigating Threats to Colorado Judges in Trump Ballot Case
The FBI has joined forces with local law enforcement in Colorado following threats made against state Supreme Court justices. These threats emerged after a recent ruling to remove former President Donald Trump from Colorado's 2024 presidential ballot. FBI Public Affairs Officer Vikki Migoya confirmed the agency's involvement, stating, "The FBI is aware of the situation and working with local law enforcement."
A spokesperson for the Colorado Judicial Branch declined to comment on these threats. Master Trooper Gary Cutler of the Colorado State Patrol mentioned that any threats against judges would typically be handled by local authorities. The Denver Police Department also responded to a potentially hoax report at a justice's residence, though they could not provide further details due to the ongoing investigation.
State and local law enforcement, along with non-government research groups, are vigilantly monitoring online forums for extremist rhetoric that might translate into real-world threats against public officials. An analysis prepared for US law enforcement agencies revealed frequent mentions of the Colorado justices in online forums, often accompanied by inflammatory posts and calls to expose personal data. No specific threats were found, but the analysis indicated a risk of violence or illegal activities in response to the ruling.
One user on a far-right, pro-Trump website posted a particularly disturbing comment about the justices, reflecting a pattern of online activity seen after previous federal indictments of Trump. These online discussions often include vague calls for civil war and violent language, but rarely show specific plans for action.
Colorado's Supreme Court made an unprecedented 4-3 decision last week, declaring Trump ineligible as a presidential candidate under the 14th Amendment's “insurrectionist ban.” This decision is currently on hold until January 4, pending Trump’s appeal to the US Supreme Court.
Trump has previously verbally attacked courtroom adversaries in a separate case and was restricted from speaking about witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and their family members.
This situation is part of a larger trend of increasing threats against public officials, including GOP members involved in the House speakership vote, Trump's indictments, and progressive Rep. Ilhan Omar. The rise in threats has prompted federal law enforcement to be on high alert, especially in light of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot which was planned openly on social media but not adequately addressed by the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.