Five people have been arrested in connection with the shooting of Indiana Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, at their home on Sunday, January 18th. The shooting occurred around 2:17 p.m., leaving Judge Meyer injured in the arm and his wife injured in the hip. Both are currently in stable condition.
Arrests Made in Judge Meyer Shooting
Those arrested include Thomas Moss, 43, of Tippecanoe County, Indiana; Blake Smith, 32, of Dayton, Indiana; and Raylen Ferguson, 38, of Lexington, Kentucky. All three face charges of attempted murder – a level one felony in Indiana – and conspiracy to commit murder. They also face additional charges of gang enhancement and firearm enhancement.
Amanda Milsap, 45, of Lafayette, was arrested on charges of bribery and obstruction of justice. Zenada Greer, 61, of Lexington, Kentucky, faces charges of assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice. The relationship between the suspects remains unclear.
Authorities have not released a motive for the shooting. However, Thomas Moss was scheduled to appear before Judge Meyer for a jury trial on January 20th, related to charges of domestic battery, unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, and shooting a firearm into a building. Court records indicate Moss has a history of legal issues dating back to 2004, including convictions for battery resulting in serious bodily injury and criminal recklessness.
Further court records allege that Moss threatened a former girlfriend between 2022 and 2024, using handguns and a broomstick, sometimes in front of their child. The woman reportedly stated she complied with his demands due to threats to kill or harm her. Law enforcement reportedly found apparent bullet holes in a closet at their residence.
Multi-Agency Investigation
Lafayette police conducted an extensive investigation, collaborating with agencies across multiple states, including Lexington and Allentown, Pennsylvania, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Judge Meyer, who announced he would not seek re-election in November, issued a statement expressing gratitude for the support he and his wife have received. He reaffirmed his faith in the judicial system and the importance of peaceful dispute resolution. Indiana Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush also voiced concern for the safety of all judges in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges do the suspects face?
Thomas Moss, Blake Smith, and Raylen Ferguson are charged with attempted murder – a level one felony in Indiana – and conspiracy to commit murder, along with gang and firearm enhancements. Amanda Milsap is charged with bribery and obstruction of justice, and Zenada Greer is charged with assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice.
Was a motive for the shooting established?
Police have not publicly shared a motive for the shooting. However, Thomas Moss was scheduled to appear in Judge Meyer’s courtroom two days after the incident.
What is the condition of Judge Meyer and his wife?
Both Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly, are in stable condition. Judge Meyer sustained an injury to his arm, and his wife was injured in the hip.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge and how the legal proceedings will unfold. Will the full extent of the alleged conspiracy be revealed, and what impact will this incident have on the safety and security of judicial officials?
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