Concerns about judicial security are increasing due to a perceived decline in respect for the judiciary worldwide, particularly in North America. This has resulted in threats against judges and their families, both physical and online.
A national committee, chaired by Justice Clayton Conlan, has gathered information from justice sector security officials across Canada, who report a rise in threats, especially online. The committee plans to engage a security expert to assist in drafting a comprehensive report that will:
- Guide judges on self-protection measures and steps to take if they become aware of a threat or incident
- Outline deficiencies in the current system and propose necessary improvements (e.g., more security personnel, increased funding, enhanced courthouse security)
The committee anticipates releasing this report within the next several months.
