GREENBELT, Md. — A California man who traveled across the country with the intent to assassinate a U.S. Supreme Court Justice pleaded guilty Tuesday to attempted murder, the Department of Justice announced.
Key Points
- Nicholas Roske admitted traveling from California to Maryland to kill a Supreme Court Justice, Brett Kavanaugh
- Law enforcement found weapons and burglary tools in Roske’s possession outside the Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s home
- Roske faces a maximum sentence of life in prison with sentencing set for October 3
Nicholas John Roske, 29, of Simi Valley, California, admitted in court that he flew from Los Angeles to Dulles International Airport on June 7, 2022, with a firearm and ammunition in his luggage. He then took a taxi to Montgomery County, Maryland, arriving near a Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s home in the early morning hours.
At approximately 1:05 a.m. on June 8, two Deputy U.S. Marshals stationed outside the residence observed Roske exiting a taxi while dressed in black and carrying a backpack and suitcase. After seeing the officers, Roske walked down the street before calling local authorities to report his intentions and surrender.
Weapon cache found at scene
When Montgomery County Police arrived, they arrested Roske and searched his belongings. Inside, they found a handgun, tactical gear, zip ties, ammunition, a crowbar, lock-pick tools, and other items.
Roske later told investigators he was motivated by a leaked Supreme Court draft decision on abortion and the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
According to the plea agreement, Roske admitted his plan was to kill the Supreme Court Justice using the weapon and tools he had brought with him. He was read his Miranda rights at a police station following his arrest.
Sentencing to follow in October
Roske now faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for October 3 before U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman.
The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Montgomery County Police Department, and the Police Department for the U.S. Supreme Court were all credited for their roles in the investigation.