(From Todd Epp, Northern Plains News)
U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier of South Dakota has been appointed to a newly formed national task force focused on strengthening the safety and independence of the federal judiciary.
The Judicial Security and Independence Task Force, created by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, identifies, analyzes, and recommends responses to current and emerging risks facing judges and court personnel.
Schreier joins the group amid growing concerns over threats to federal judges and reduced courthouse security. The Judiciary’s Court Security program has been frozen at fiscal year 2023 funding levels for two consecutive years, despite what court officials describe as a “significant rise in threats.”
According to the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, the Task Force’s goal is to ensure the continued security and independence of the Judicial Branch. Members will examine the landscape of existing threats, develop proactive strategies, and work to safeguard courts from political or physical interference.
Schreier has served on the federal bench since 1999, when President Bill Clinton appointed her. She previously served as U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota and is the state’s first female federal judge.
The creation of the Task Force comes when judicial independence is under increasing scrutiny, and court administrators are warning of vulnerabilities due to ongoing congressional funding shortfalls.
