
A sitting Indiana judge and his wife were ambushed at their own home in a calculated attack that should alarm every American who values the rule of law and the safety of those who uphold it.
Story Snapshot
- Judge Steven Meyer and wife, Kimberly, were shot at their Lafayette home after suspects used a dog ruse to lure them to the door
- Five suspects arrested followinga multi-state manhunt involving the FBI and U.S. Marshals, three facing attempted murder charges
- Attack highlights growing threat to judicial safety as judges face retaliation from defendants they’ve sentenced
- Indiana Chief Justice warns violence against judges is unacceptable as courthouse security increases statewide
Brazen Attack on Judge and Wife
Suspects approached the Mill Pond Lane home of Tippecanoe Superior Court Judge Steven Meyer in Lafayette, Indiana, knocked on the door, and told the occupants, “We have your dog.” When Judge Meyer and his wife responded, the attackers opened fire through the door.
Judge Meyer sustained an arm injury while Kimberly suffered a hip wound. Both victims were hospitalized in stable condition and have since reported improvement. Shell casings recovered at the scene confirmed the deliberate nature of the attack on the couple’s residence.
Swift Multi-Agency Response Yields Five Arrests
After hundreds of investigative hours, law enforcement announced five arrests on January 22, just four days after the shooting. The coordinated multi-state operation involved the Lafayette Police Department, Indiana State Police, the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals.
Three suspects face attempted murder charges: Raylen Ferguson, 38, of Lexington, Kentucky, with gang and firearm enhancements; Thomas Moss, 43, of Lafayette, charged as a habitual offender; and Blake Smith, 32, of Lafayette, also designated a habitual offender.
Amanda Milsap, 45, of Lafayette, faces bribery and obstruction charges, while Zenada Greer, 61, of Lexington, Kentucky, faces charges of assisting a criminal and obstruction.
Judicial Vulnerability Raises Security Concerns
The targeted attack underscores a troubling reality for judges who make difficult sentencing decisions daily. Criminal defense attorney Jonna Spilbor explained that judges often face resentment from defendants, creating “long lists of potential suspects” who blame judicial officers for their convictions.
Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush issued a stark warning following the attack, stating that “any violence against a judge is unacceptable” and urging vigilance among the state’s judiciary. With Indiana courts handling over one million cases annually, the incident raises serious questions about protections for those who serve the justice system.
This attack represents a direct assault on the rule of law itself, threatening the independence and safety of judicial officers who uphold constitutional principles.
ARRESTED:
5 people are now in custody accused of attempted murder and bribery in the shootings of Tippecanoe County Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly Meyer.
Raylen Ferguson, Thomas Moss and Blake Smith face multiple charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to… pic.twitter.com/fMXNzPe1cf
— Angela Ganote (@angelaganote) January 23, 2026
Investigation Continues as Community Rallies
Despite the violent attack, Judge Meyer expressed unwavering confidence in the justice system he serves. In a public statement, he declared “strong faith in our judicial system” and pride in being part of it. Kimberly Meyer similarly expressed gratitude for the support and medical care they received.
Tippecanoe County Sheriff Bob Goldsmith implemented enhanced courthouse security measures while assuring the public that no additional threats had been identified.
The motive for the attack remains undisclosed as prosecutors build their case against the five suspects. The interstate coordination and gang enhancement charges suggest a potentially organized criminal element, raising concerns about whether this represents broader threats against judicial independence and constitutional governance.
Sources:
5 arrested in connection with shooting of judge, wife in Indiana – ABC7 Chicago
Shooting of judge, wife in Indiana: 5 arrested – CBS News
Indiana judge shooting charges – FOX 32 Chicago
Indiana judge shooting leaves long list of potential suspects after days-long manhunt – Fox News

















