A 72-year-old Minnesota resident faces serious charges after creating and distributing a disturbing 236-page manifesto detailing plans to kill federal judges.
According to The Hill, Robert Phillip Ivers was arrested on September 3 after library staff reported him printing copies of his manifesto titled "How to Kill a Federal Judge." The document contained explicit instructions for targeting judges, their families, and other public officials.
Library employees became alarmed when Ivers deliberately showed them sections of the manifesto that discussed killing children. He also distributed a three-page flyer promoting the document as a guide for extremists to "plan, train, hunt, stalk, and kill" various individuals, including judges and politicians.
Previous Conviction Raises Serious Concerns
This incident is not Ivers' first brush with the law regarding judicial threats. He was previously convicted of threatening to kill a federal judge, whose name appears in the new manifesto along with the judge who presided over that trial.
The manifesto reveals Ivers' deep-seated grievances against the judicial system and his plans for revenge. According to prosecutors, the document contains handwritten threats targeting judges, explicitly mentioning harm to their children and pets.
Law enforcement discovered disturbing items in Ivers' possession during the investigation. These items included multiple copies of the manifesto, lists of federal judges, a photo of the former Pope defaced with crosshairs, fireworks, and the "Anarchist Cookbook."
Minnesota's Recent Violence Amplifies Concerns
The threats come at a particularly sensitive time for Minnesota's community. The state is still processing recent violent incidents, including the assassination of top Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in June.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson emphasized the gravity of the situation in light of recent events. Thompson stated that Ivers' threats were "bone chilling" and assured swift action to protect Minnesotans.
The manifesto explicitly aimed to instill fear, with Ivers writing "If this book doesn't instill fear in you then your already dead." This direct threat has been taken seriously by law enforcement given the current climate of violence.
Legal Proceedings and Suspect's Behavior
Ivers' arrest on September 3 was complicated by his claim of having a heart attack during transport. He was taken to the hospital and released, only to be arrested again on September 5.
During questioning, Ivers admitted to showing his manifesto to library staff. When asked about the frightening nature of his book, he reportedly shouted that causing fear was his intention.
The suspect's concerning behavior was first noticed on August 28 at a nearby church. Local authorities received reports about his suspicious activities, leading to increased surveillance.
Minnesota Authorities Take Decisive Action
The Department of Justice is treating this case with utmost seriousness, given the explicit nature of the threats. Law enforcement's swift response demonstrates their commitment to preventing potential violence against judicial officials.
Minnesota officials are particularly vigilant following recent violent incidents in the state. The combination of Ivers' previous conviction and the detailed nature of his threats has prompted aggressive prosecution.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about threats to public officials and the importance of community vigilance. Authorities continue to investigate potential connections and monitor for any related security threats.
