Do DeLay's recent radical comments concerning the impeachment of certain judges constitute a Federal crime?
In light of the recent gunning down of an Illinois judge's folks, and a state judge in Georgia, NJ Sen Laughtenburg seems to think so.
"Our nation’s judges must be concerned for their safety and security when they are asked to make difficult decisions every day. That’s why comments like those you made are not only irresponsible, but downright dangerous. To make matters worse, is it appropriate to make threats directed at specific federal and state judges? You should be aware that your comments yesterday may violate a federal criminal statute, 18 U.S.C. Sec. 115 (a)(1)(B). That law states:
"'Whoever threatens to assault…. or murder, a United States judge… with intent to retaliate against such… judge…. on account of the performance of official duties, shall be punished [by up to six years in prison].'