Indiana Judge & Wife Shot: Five Suspects in Custody
In a shocking incident that has shaken the community, Tippecanoe County Judge Steven Meyer and his wife, Kimberly Meyer, were shot at their Lafayette, Indiana home on January 18, 2026. Law enforcement has swiftly apprehended five suspects in connection with the attack, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities are treating this case. This incident raises critical questions about security for public officials and the role of a criminal defense attorney in ensuring justice is served.
The Arrests & Charges
The Lafayette Police Department announced the arrests of Raylen Ferguson, 38, and Zenada Greer, 61, both from Lexington, Kentucky, along with Thomas Moss, 43, Blake Smith, 32, and Amanda Milsap, 45, all residents of Lafayette, Indiana. Ferguson, Moss, and Smith face charges including attempted murder, aggravated battery, and intimidation with a deadly weapon, with gang and firearm enhancements. Moss and Smith have also been identified as habitual offenders.
Milsap has been charged with bribery and obstruction of justice, while Greer faces charges of assisting a criminal and obstruction of justice. The complexity of these charges underscores the need for skilled criminal defense attorneys to navigate the legal process and ensure fair representation for all involved.
What Happened? Dispatch Audio Reveals Key Details
Dispatch audio obtained by Fox News Digital reveals a chilling sequence of events. The unidentified shooter reportedly knocked on Judge Meyer’s door around 2:15 p.m. before opening fire through the door. Prior to the shooting, the suspect allegedly stated, “We have your dog,” according to the audio. This detail adds a disturbing layer to the incident, suggesting a deliberate attempt to provoke and intimidate the judge and his wife.
Judge Meyer’s Statement & Recovery
Judge Steven Meyer sustained an arm injury, while Kimberly Meyer suffered a hip injury. Both are currently in stable condition. In his first public statement since the shooting, Judge Meyer expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he and his wife have received from the community, colleagues, and law enforcement.
“I am so grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, the community, court colleagues, and law enforcement,” Judge Meyer stated. “I want to express my heartfelt thanks to my medical team. I am receiving excellent care and I am improving. Kim is also deeply appreciative for the community support, and she too is healing.”
Faith in the Justice System
Despite the horrific ordeal, Judge Meyer remains steadfast in his belief in the judicial system. “I want the community to know that I have strong faith in our judicial system,” he said. “This horrific violence will not shake my belief in the importance of peacefully resolving disputes. I remain confident we have the best judicial system in the world, and I am proud to be a part of it.” The role of a competent criminal defense attorney is crucial in upholding the integrity of this system.
No Prior Threats Reported
According to the Lafayette Police Department, this incident marks the first recorded act of violence against Judge Meyer. Officials confirmed there were no prior records of threats against the judge or 911 calls originating from his residence. This lack of prior warning makes the attack even more unsettling.
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Fox News Digital’s Adam Sabes and Julia Bonavita contributed to this report. Greg Norman is a reporter at Fox News Digital.
