Trial Begins Over Emails Threatening to 'Skin' a Federal Judge

Trial underway to decide if threatening emails against a federal judge are true threats.

Quantavious K. Hurt, a federal inmate, stands trial starting November 2, 2026, after being indicted for sending emails threatening to injure and kill a United States federal judge. The indictment, issued on October 21, 2026, charges Hurt on two counts: one for threatening to assault and murder a judge with intent to intimidate and retaliate, and another for mailing a threat. Each count carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

The threatening communications reportedly include messages asserting that "it was legal to kill judges," prompting legal debate over whether such statements meet the legal threshold of "true threats." The identity of the targeted judge has been withheld to protect their security.

Law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation include the FBI, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the U.S. Marshals Service, signaling the seriousness of threats against the judiciary. Daniel N. Rosen, U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, emphasized their commitment: "My office has no tolerance for political violence and threats of political violence. We will prosecute—to the fullest extent of the law—those who intimidate or threaten public servants who are just doing their jobs." Meanwhile, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. noted that "Threats against federal judges and lawmakers strike at the heart of our judicial system and our democracy."

The trial will test the legal boundaries of free speech versus true threats in the context of online communications directed at the judiciary, an increasingly critical concern as courts face rising risks from cyber threats.