Chief Justice Asks for More Security for Courthouses and Judges

In his annual State of the Judiciary speech, Chief Justice of State Supreme Court George W. Draper III says Missouri’s legal system was better prepared than those in other states to handle the pandemic’s massive disruptions.

But he says the state is less prepared to handle the threats of violence against judges and their families- and needs extra marshals and security upgrades.

“No public servant – whether a legislator, executive officer, or judge or any of our dedicated employees – should have any reason to be fearful in their place of work,” Judge Draper says. “Nor should their families be fearful at home. It is equally critical for all of us to protect our buildings and to ensure the safety of the many members of the public …”

Draper is asking the Legislature to spend more on court security.