Five Arrested in Shooting of Indiana Judge and Wife
The Lafayette Police Department has arrested five individuals in connection with the shooting of Indiana Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, at their home on Sunday afternoon. The incident has drawn significant attention, particularly as one of the suspects was scheduled to appear in court before Judge Meyer just days after the shooting.
Why It Matters
This shooting raises serious concerns regarding judicial safety, especially as it involves suspects directly linked to an ongoing trial in which Judge Meyer presided. The potential implications for both the judicial system and community safety are significant, as this incident highlights the risks faced by public officials.
Key Developments
- Five suspects arrested: Thomas Moss (43), Blake Smith (32), Amanda Milsap (45), Raylen Ferguson (38), and Zenada Greer (61) are in custody.
- The judge and his wife are currently in stable condition.
- The investigation revealed that Smith had previously purchased a firearm consistent with the weapon used in the attack.
- Moss, associated with the Phantom Motorcycle Club, was scheduled for a trial in Judge Meyer’s courtroom within days of the shooting.
Full Report
Arrests Made
The Lafayette Police Department identified five suspects—Thomas Moss, Blake Smith, Amanda Milsap, Raylen Ferguson, and Zenada Greer—arrested following the shooting incident involving Judge Meyer and his wife. All suspects are from Indiana or Kentucky and are now in police custody.
Incident Details
Reports indicate that the assailant knocked on the Judge’s door around 2:15 p.m. Sunday, announcing, "We have your dog," before opening fire. Surveillance and audio evidence corroborate this sequence of events. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the couple is now in stable condition following their injuries.
Link to Pending Trial
Records show that Blake Smith and Thomas Moss had cases pending before Judge Meyer. Moss, a known member of the Phantom Motorcycle Club—a group described as a gang—was due for a jury trial just two days after the shooting, facing multiple charges including domestic battery and firearm possession.
Previous Criminal History
Moss has a lengthy criminal record that includes charges of battery and intimidation, and has previously faced allegations related to firearm use in domestic incidents. Court documents reveal disturbing patterns of behavior, including threats made towards his ex-wife.
Context & Previous Events
Prior to the shooting, Moss had been involved in various legal troubles, including charges stemming from domestic violence incidents dating back to 2024. He was accused of physical assault against his ex-wife and has faced scrutiny for his behavior involving firearms in family settings. On the eve of the shooting, callers reported concerning statements aimed at witnesses intended to dissuade them from testifying against him in an upcoming trial.
This incident not only underscores the dangers faced by judiciary members but also reflects broader challenges regarding gang-related violence and domestic abuse within communities.
