In an extraordinary videotaped message, Federal Judge Esther Salas is “begging those in power to do something to help my brothers and sisters on the bench.” Salas says, “Two weeks ago, my life as I knew it changed in an instant, and my family will never be the same. A madman, who I believe was targeting me because of my position as a federal judge, came to my house.”
NPR writes about the murder of her Salas’ son in their New Jersey home:
On July 19, a man later identified by the FBI as Roy Den Hollander went to Salas’ home, apparently angered over her handling of a court case.
“This monster who had a FedEx package in his hand opened fire. Daniel, being Daniel, protected his father,” Salas said.
Daniel Anderl, 20, died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Salas’ husband, Mark Anderl, was seriously wounded.
Salas adds:
“This monster knew where I lived and what church we attended.”
“Now, more than ever, we need to identify a solution that keeps the lives of federal judges private. I know this is a complicated issue, and I don’t pretend to know or have all answers, but together we can find a way. Let’s commence a national dialogue, let’s work collaboratively to find a solution that will safeguard the privacy of federal judges… This is a matter of life and death.”
Salas’ husband is still in the hospital recovering from multiple surgeries.
Watch Salas’ full statement above.