A Las Vegas woman was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on Thursday for making threats against two U.S. Federal judges, according to the Department of Justice. The sentencing took place in Dallas, Texas, where the defendant, identified as Karen Marie Lindgren, 60, is currently detained. The case highlights the increasing threats directed toward the judiciary and the serious consequences for those who attempt to intimidate or harm judges.
Lindgren pleaded guilty in November 2023 to two counts of transmitting interstate communications with the intent to injure, according to court documents. Prosecutors stated that Lindgren left threatening voicemail messages for U.S. District Judge Gloria M. Navarro in Nevada, and U.S. District Judge David C. Nye, likewise in Nevada. The threats were made in 2022 and included violent language and explicit intentions to cause harm.
“Threatening the judiciary strikes at the heart of our justice system,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas, whose office prosecuted the case. “These threats are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We will continue to vigorously prosecute anyone who attempts to intimidate or harm our judges.”
Details of the Threats
The investigation, conducted by the FBI, revealed that Lindgren’s threats were specific and credible. According to a criminal complaint, Lindgren left a voicemail for Judge Navarro on July 12, 2022, stating, “You will regret what you have done… I’m going to kill you.” She left a similar message for Judge Nye on July 13, 2022, threatening violence and expressing anger over rulings in cases she was involved in. The specific cases motivating the threats were not immediately detailed by the Department of Justice.
Federal authorities took the threats seriously, initiating an investigation that led to Lindgren’s arrest. The FBI worked to trace the calls and identify Lindgren as the source of the threats. The case was then transferred to the Western District of Texas for prosecution, a common practice in cases involving threats against federal officials.
Rising Threats Against Judges
The sentencing comes amid a growing national concern over threats against judges and other public officials. The U.S. Marshals Service reported a significant increase in threats against federal judges in recent years, fueled in part by politically charged rhetoric and misinformation. In August 2023, the Marshals Service reported a 567% increase in threats against federal judges compared to 2015 NBC News reported.
This increase has prompted calls for greater security measures for judges and increased penalties for those who make threats. The Department of Justice has made prosecuting these cases a priority, emphasizing the importance of protecting the independence of the judiciary. The U.S. Attorney General has directed U.S. Attorneys’ offices across the country to prioritize cases involving threats against judges and other public servants.
Lindgren’s Background and Legal Representation
Details about Lindgren’s background are limited. Court records indicate she represented herself during the proceedings. The judge considered factors such as the severity of the threats, Lindgren’s lack of remorse, and the need to deter others from similar conduct when imposing the 10-year sentence.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Hatch of the Western District of Texas. The Department of Justice has not released any further information about Lindgren’s legal strategy or potential appeals.
What’s Next
Lindgren will begin serving her sentence immediately. The Bureau of Prisons will determine the specific facility where she will be incarcerated. There is no information currently available regarding potential parole eligibility. The Department of Justice continues to investigate threats against federal officials and encourages anyone with information to contact the FBI.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve in the judicial system and the importance of protecting their safety and independence. The Department of Justice has stated its commitment to vigorously prosecuting anyone who attempts to undermine the rule of law through threats or violence.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or violent thoughts, please reach out for aid. You can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US and Canada, or dialing 111 in the UK. These services are available 24/7, free, and confidential.
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