Nicholas John Roske, 29, of Simi Valley, California, pleaded guilty Tuesday to attempting to kill a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
As part of his guilty plea, Roske admitted that on June 7, 2022, he flew from Los Angeles to Dulles International Airport with a firearm and ammunition in his checked luggage, then took a taxi to Montgomery County, Maryland, intending to kill Supreme Court Justice
According to the criminal complaint, around 1:05 a.m. on June 8, two Deputy U.S. Marshals guarding the Justice’s home saw Roske arrive by taxi, dressed in black and carrying a backpack and suitcase.
As the marshals approached, Roske walked away and soon called 911, saying he had a gun, was experiencing homicidal and suicidal thoughts, and had traveled from California to kill a specific Justice.
Montgomery County police arrested Roske and searched his bags, finding a pistol, tactical gear, a knife, ammunition, pepper spray, zip ties, burglary tools, and other items.
At the police station, after being read his Miranda rights, Roske said he was angered by a leaked Supreme Court draft decision on abortion and the recent Uvalde school shooting. He admitted he intended to use the firearm and tools to kill the Justice.
Roske faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman set sentencing for Oct. 3.