Key Takeaways
• A 72-year-old man, Robert Ivers, faces new federal judge threats charges.
• He printed a 236-page manifesto entitled “How to Kill a Federal Judge” at a public library.
• Law enforcement found weapons, lists of judges, and violent imagery in his car.
• Ivers has a prior conviction for threatening to kill a judge and showed racist behavior.
• He now awaits trial on federal charges after being arrested on September 3.
Inside Federal Judge Threats Case
In early September, authorities arrested Robert Ivers at a Minnesota library. They had received a report that he was printing copies of a dangerous manifesto. The book taught people how to kill judges, their families, and even children. Immediately, law enforcement officers saw the serious nature of these federal judge threats.
Just hours after the library alert, agents searched Ivers’s vehicle. Moreover, they found disturbing items that confirmed his plans. Among the items were a replica gun, carbon-dioxide cartridges, pellets, fireworks, and a copy of the Anarchist Cookbook. In addition, they discovered lists of federal judges and flyers promoting his book. Clearly, the evidence showed more than just idle threats.
Evidence Behind Federal Judge Threats
Robert Ivers had already served time for threatening a judge. However, prosecutors say he did not stop. On September 3, library staff alerted police after Ivers printed his manifesto. He showed them a page with a gun picture and text about killing children. Then he handed out flyers that bragged his guide would “teach extremists” how to plan, train, hunt, stalk, and kill judges. The flyers warned that “the harsh reality is that judges are going to die.”
Investigators also learned that five days earlier, Ivers had acted strangely at an Episcopal church. He attended multiple services and told people he would return on significant dates. Church staff grew worried after they checked his past. He had been convicted of a felony for making threats. He also made racist comments. Therefore, they called law enforcement right away.
Manifesto Details and Violent Imagery
Ivers’s 236-page manifesto contains violent sketches and hand-written threats. One photo shows a man holding a rifle. The text repeatedly targets judges, their children, and even pets. On one page, he wrote, “If this book doesn’t instill fear in you then your (sic) already dead.” He named several judges by title and location, including one who had sentenced him before.
Furthermore, investigators found a photo of the former Pope with crosshairs on his head. They also seized 20 bound copies of his printed book and stacks of promotional flyers. In short, Ivers used every tool he could to spread his message. His plan to terrorize the court system became clear through these materials.
Man’s Arrest and Initial Court Appearance
After police arrested Ivers on September 3, federal prosecutors moved fast. They charged him with threatening to kill both a federal judge and a Supreme Court Justice. He appeared in court wearing jail clothes and shackles. In the hearing, he remained mostly silent. Yet when officers re-arrested him on September 5 for showing his manifesto, he shouted, “It was supposed to scare people!”
His earlier conviction for threatening a judge made this case more serious. Now he faces federal judge threats charges that could carry decades in prison. Meanwhile, the court set a date for a detention hearing. The judge will decide whether Ivers can await trial in jail or under strict supervision.
Legal Consequences and Community Response
Prosecutors stress that any threat against a judge or justice attacks the rule of law. Therefore, they will pursue the maximum penalties. In addition, they plan to introduce Ivers’s manifesto and seized items as evidence. His prior record for similar threats will likely influence sentencing.
Local community members feel shaken. Library staff and church volunteers warned law enforcement before anyone got hurt. Their quick thinking likely prevented real violence. Moreover, citizens now call for tighter security around public officials. They demand better screening when someone shows aggressive behavior.
Why This Case Matters
Threats against judges undermine the justice system. They intimidate those who enforce the law. In this case, Ivers’s detailed plan shows how extremists use manuals and propaganda. However, it also highlights community vigilance. Library and church staff acted responsibly under pressure. As a result, authorities stopped a violent plot before it could start.
In the broader context, this case raises questions about online and printed hate materials. It shows how extremist content can spread in public spaces. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies work to track and stop these risks. Collaboration between public venues and police remains vital to public safety.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Robert Ivers will face several court hearings before trial. First, magistrates will rule on his detention status. Then, prosecutors will meet with defense lawyers to exchange evidence. Both sides will prepare witness lists and expert testimonies. Finally, the case could go to trial or end in a plea deal.
Regardless of the outcome, this case underscores the severe consequences of federal judge threats. Courts nationwide watch these developments closely. They aim to deter others from targeting judges and public servants. Ultimately, upholding the safety of the justice system remains a top priority.
FAQs
What charges has Robert Ivers been indicted on?
He faces federal charges for threatening to kill a federal judge and a Supreme Court Justice.
What did investigators find in his vehicle?
They found weapons, a replica gun, lists of judges, extremist books, and a violent manifesto.
How did library staff and church volunteers help stop his plot?
They noticed his strange behavior and alerted law enforcement before any violence occurred.
What happens next in his case?
He will attend hearings on detention, evidence sharing, and possibly a full trial or plea agreement.