Officials are grappling with a surge in threats against Colorado Supreme Court justices in the aftermath of their decision to disqualify former President Donald Trump from the 2024 presidential primary election.
The move, prompted by Trump’s actions leading up to the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, has ignited a wave of online violence-related posts, leading to heightened security measures.
FBI investigates surge in threats against Colorado justices
In the wake of the Dec. 19 decision, reports indicate an alarming increase in online posts advocating violence towards the justices.
The FBI, in collaboration with local law enforcement, is actively investigating these threats.
FBI spokesperson Vikki Migoya emphasized their commitment to pursuing investigations into any form of violence driven by extremist views.
Read More: Colorado Justices receive numerous threats after Trump’s ballot disqualification
Increased security measures and hoax incidents
Denver Police Department has responded proactively by increasing patrols near the homes of the targeted justices and offering additional support upon request.
Recent incidents, including an apparent hoax report leading to a police response at a justice’s home, underscore the escalating tension surrounding the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision.
Online violence triggers concerns for public safety
Advance Democracy, a public interest research nonprofit, conducted an analysis revealing widespread violent rhetoric against justices and Democrats following the ruling.
Advance Democracy president Daniel J. Jones expressed deep concern about the normalization of violent rhetoric and the inadequate response from social media platforms.
Disturbing online threats against Colorado justices
The report from Advance Democracy highlighted disturbing messages posted on various platforms.
One post suggested violence with the chilling statement, “What do you call 7 justices from the Colorado Supreme Court at the bottom of the ocean? A good start.”
Another post advocated for extreme actions, stating, “Kill judges. Behead judges. Roundhouse kick a judge into the concrete.”
Judicial department’s response and legal justification
The Colorado Judicial Department, faced with the escalating threats, refrained from commenting on “security-related matters.”
The state Supreme Court’s decision to disqualify Trump hinges on the justices’ determination that his actions amounted to inciting an insurrection.
This pivotal ruling overturned a lower court’s decision, asserting that the 14th Amendment applies, barring anyone “engaged in insurrection” from holding office.
Uncharted waters: Consequences and fallout
The fallout from the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision goes beyond the legal realm, reaching into the realm of public safety and escalating into threats against those involved.
The unprecedented nature of threats against justices prompts a critical examination of the intersection between legal decisions, political repercussions, and the safety of those involved.
Trump disqualification sparks online threats to Colorado justices
The disqualification of Donald Trump from the 2024 presidential primary election has not only ignited legal debates but has also triggered a disturbing surge in online threats against the Colorado Supreme Court justices.
The aftermath reflects a broader societal concern regarding the normalization of violent rhetoric and the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing such threats in the digital age.
Read Next: Donors to President Biden’s Campaign Lead Group Behind Trump’s Removal from 2024 Colorado Ballot
