Nicholas Roske, who attempted to assassinate Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh in 2022, received a sentence of 97 months—just over eight years—in prison. Judge Deborah Boardman, a Biden appointee, imposed the punishment after Roske pleaded guilty to one charge of attempting to murder a Supreme Court justice, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Boardman cited Roske’s transgender identity as a factor in reducing the sentence, noting concerns about access to gender-affirming care if Roske were housed in a male prison. During the hearing, the judge referred to Roske as “Sophie,” acknowledging that Roske uses female pronouns and goes by the name Sophie. Prosecutors stated that Roske’s legal name is Nicholas but emphasized her self-identification as transgender.
Roske’s plan involved traveling from California to Virginia in June 2022, armed with a pistol, knife, lock-picking tools, duct tape, and other equipment, intending to attack Kavanaugh’s residence. In the weeks prior, Roske conducted extensive online research on mass shooters, methods of harm, and graphic violence, including searches about “twisting or dragging a knife cause more damage.” The attempt coincided with heightened tensions over the Dobbs decision, which targeted abortion rights.
During the sentencing, Boardman acknowledged Roske’s actions as an act of terrorism but emphasized her decision to reduce the sentence due to Roske’s self-reporting to police after approaching Kavanaugh’s home. “This is an atypical defendant and an atypical case,” Boardman said. “Though she got far too close to executing her plans, the fact remains she abandoned them.”
Roske expressed remorse in court, attributing the incident to a mental health crisis. She described the act as a “tragic mistake” and apologized for the distress caused to Kavanaugh and his family. Defense attorneys highlighted Roske’s transgender identity, arguing that access to appropriate medical care was a critical consideration.
Boardman also referenced President Donald Trump’s executive order banning gender-affirming care for federal inmates, questioning whether Roske would receive adequate treatment in a male facility. Despite acknowledging the severity of the crime, the judge emphasized balancing accountability with concerns over Roske’s well-being.
The ruling has drawn sharp criticism, with critics arguing it sets a dangerous precedent by potentially incentivizing criminal behavior through identity-based leniency.
