SALT LAKE CITY — In the aftermath of a judge's ruling last week that dramatically altered Utah's congressional map, multiple judges and court employees have received threats, according to the state's judicial branch of government.
In a statement Monday, the Judiciary condemned those threats and urged people to approach their concerns with civility, respect and constructive dialogue.
"We call on everyone to approach concerns involving the courts with civility, respect, and constructive dialogue," the statement from the Utah Administrative Office of the Courts said.
"Threats of violence against judges or court personnel are unacceptable, dangerous, and may violate state or federal law. Any conduct aimed at causing fear for a ruling or undermining the safe operation of the justice system strikes at the heart of the rule of law. Such actions endanger not only the individuals targeted but the functioning of the justice system itself.”
Third District Judge Dianna Gibson rejected a map passed by the Utah State Legislature, instead choosing a map submitted by the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that she claimed did not favor a political party. That decision was immediately met with outrage by some Republicans on Utah's Capitol Hill, including some who called for the judge to be impeached.
Disappointed in Utah congressional map decision, some GOP threaten impeachment:
On Monday, House Speaker Mike Schultz (R-Hooper), who has heavily criticized the ruling, told FOX 13 News he condemned the threats against Judge Gibson and others in the judiciary.
"Political violence is sad and for threats to be made? It’s unacceptable," he said. "Look, while I disagree with the judiciary’s decision, we certainly have to respect the role they play and any type of threat is not OK. So I’m sad that’s where we’re at today."
Rep. Matt MacPherson (R-West Valley City) posted to social media minutes after the decision, accusing Gibson of a "gross abuse of power."
The Utah Administrative Office of the Courts told FOX 13 News on Monday it is evaluating security for judges and court personnel. In its statement, the judicial branch defended its independence.
"Judges have a constitutional duty to apply the law to the facts before them, independent of external pressures. That independence is essential to preserving the separation of powers and ensuring that justice is administered fairly and impartially.”
