Arrests in Shooting of Indiana Judge Highlight Targeted Violence Against Judiciary
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Executive Summary
Authorities arrested five individuals in connection with the shooting of Indiana Superior Court Judge Steven Meyer and his wife at their home in Lafayette on 18 January 2026. Open source reporting indicates the attack was targeted and likely connected to an active criminal case pending before the judge, involving a defendant with documented gang affiliations. The incident has intensified concerns about judicial security and retaliation driven violence linked to organized criminal networks.
Analysis
The shooting appears to be a deliberate act of intimidation or retaliation tied to ongoing criminal proceedings rather than an indiscriminate act of violence.
The judge and his wife were shot through their front door after a suspect knocked and used a ruse to draw them closer, indicating premeditation and knowledge of the victims’ residence. Both survived and remain in stable condition. Law enforcement officials have not publicly confirmed a motive, but court records and charging documents point to a strong nexus between the suspects and cases overseen by Judge Meyer.
Police arrested Thomas Moss, Blake Smith, and Raylen Ferguson on charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated battery, and intimidation, with gang and firearm enhancements, while Moss and Smith were also designated habitual offenders.
Moss had an active felony case scheduled for trial before Judge Meyer days after the shooting, including charges of domestic battery, intimidation, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a violent felon.
Investigators allege Moss is a high ranking member of the Phantom Motorcycle Club and has prior ties to the Vice Lords, with prosecutors asserting that gang involvement played a role in planning and executing the attack.
Two additional suspects, Amanda Milsap and Zenada Greer, were charged with obstruction related offenses, with court filings indicating attempts to influence witnesses and assist those involved.
The case underscores a growing concern among judicial officials about personal safety, particularly when presiding over cases involving violent offenders or organized crime. Statements from Indiana’s chief justice emphasized that violence against judges or their families is unacceptable and threatens the rule of law. The multi state nature of the arrests, involving local police, the FBI, and the US Marshals Service, reflects the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident and the perceived risk of further retaliation or flight.
Judge Meyer has stated publicly that the attack will not shake his faith in the judicial system, but the event is likely to prompt renewed discussion around protective measures for judges, especially at the state and county level where personal security is often limited compared to federal courts.
