Wayzata, MN – A 72-year-old man in Minnesota has been arrested after allegedly writing a manifesto titled “How to Kill a Federal Judge” and showing it to staff at a local library, authorities said. The arrest comes amid heightened concern over threats against public officials and judges.
Robert Phillip Ivers was taken into custody last week and charged with threatening to assault and murder a federal judge.
Arrest Follows Threatening Behavior at Wayzata Library
According to the U.S. District Court of Minnesota, authorities responded on Sept. 3 to the Wayzata Library after receiving a report that a man — later identified as Ivers — was printing copies of his 236-page manifesto.
Prosecutors allege that Ivers showed the book to library staff, including a page that referenced “killing children” alongside a picture of a gun. He also distributed a three-page flyer promoting his manifesto, which reportedly stated the book “is designed to teach extremists on how to plan, train, hunt, stalk and kill anyone including judges, their family members, politicians and more!”
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said in a statement:
“Ivers’s threats are bone chilling. After the past few months, we are not taking chances. When someone threatens our community, we believe them, and we will act swiftly to protect Minnesotans.”
Prior Conviction Heightens Concerns
Ivers has a criminal history related to similar threats. In 2019, he was convicted of threatening to kill a federal judge and served 18 months in federal prison. Authorities say the manifesto details his perceived grievances against the judicial system and includes handwritten threats to judges, their children, and pets.
“The manifesto contains various types of writings and many disturbing sketches, apparently drawn by Ivers,” prosecutors stated. “He discussed these wrongs — and his anticipated revenge — at length.”
Items Recovered From Vehicle
Later on Sept. 3, authorities located and arrested Ivers. During a search of his vehicle, investigators reportedly seized:
- A photo of the former Pope with crosshairs centered on his head
- Twenty copies of his manifesto
- Flyers advertising the book
- Lists of federal judges
- A copy of the Anarchist Cookbook
- A toy replica firearm with Co2 cartridges and pellets
- A box of fireworks
Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis commented:
“Threats of violence directed at federal judges not only undermine the integrity of our legal system but also pose a grave risk to the principles of justice and democracy.”
Manifesto Intended to Instill Fear
Prosecutors emphasized that the manifesto was designed to instill fear. It includes threats such as:
“If this book doesn’t instill fear in you then you’re already dead.”
Ivers reportedly showed particular fixation on the judge who oversaw his previous federal trial, highlighting the personal nature of his threats.
Court Appearance and Next Steps
Ivers made his initial court appearance on Tuesday and was ordered to remain in detention pending a bond hearing scheduled for Friday. Authorities have stressed that all threats against federal judges and public officials are treated with utmost seriousness.
“The FBI and our law enforcement partners consider all threats of violence against judges, or any public servants, with grave seriousness. These actions will not be tolerated,” Winston said.
Community Impact
This arrest highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the protection of federal judges. Law enforcement agencies encourage communities to report any suspicious activity or threats promptly to ensure the safety of public servants and citizens alike.
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