Senior Circuit Court Judge Justin C. Angel has been named Chairman of the Tennessee Judicial Conference Courtroom Security Committee.
Judge Angel has served the 12th Judicial District of Tennessee, which encompasses Bledsoe, Sequatchie, Marion, Rhea, Franklin, and Grundy counties for almost ten years. The Courtroom Security Committee is comprised of trial judges across the state who focus on the safety of judges, attorneys, court staff, jurors and litigants. The committee appropriates millions of dollars in grant funds which improve safety measures and judicial building security statewide.
“I was thrilled to appoint Judge Justin Angel as Chairman of the Court Security Committee. In an ever-changing world, the judiciary is confident in his ability to keep us apprised of resources, information, and training to ensure our safety as well as everyone who has contact with our judicial system.” Said Judge Valerie Smith, President of the Tennessee Judicial Conference.
According to the United States Marshals Service, threats against judges, prosecutors, and court staff have risen 390% from 2019 to 2022.
“It’s an honor to have the trust and respect of my colleagues to serve in this crucial role. Threats and attacks on judges and judicial buildings are rising at an alarming rate in our state and country. We all saw the viral video a few weeks ago where a Nevada trial judge was attacked in court by a defendant. We need effective and updated training, infrastructure, and safety measures statewide to ensure the critical function of our judicial system without fear or favor. There are many important committees within our Judicial Conference, but the Courtroom Security Committee is the only one dedicated to assure that everyone who steps inside a courtroom is safe.” Emphasized Judge Angel.
The Marion Tribune – January 18, 2024
