According to CBS News, prosecutors said his online history included research into guns, silencers, body armor, and countries without U.S. extradition treaties.
Arrest Outside Kavanaugh’s Home
On June 8, 2022, Roske flew from California to Maryland, arriving at Kavanaugh’s home at 1 a.m. Surveillance footage shows him earlier at a gun shop purchasing the firearm used in his plan.
When confronted by U.S. Marshals outside the justice’s home, Roske hesitated. After a phone call with his sister, he dialed 911, confessing his intent. Police arrested him shortly after, recovering the weapons and tools from his luggage.
He later admitted to investigators that the Supreme Court’s pending reversal of Roe v. Wade and potential loosening of gun laws motivated his actions.
Broader Threat to Judicial Independence
The Justice Department is asking the court to apply a terrorism enhancement, arguing Roske attempted to influence or intimidate government functions through violence.
“No judicial or court official, or their family, should have to live under the fear and mental toll that they could be gunned down based on a judicial decision,” prosecutors said.
