In a shocking turn of events, Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson was found shot in his driveway on October 19th. Rushed to the hospital, he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Authorities immediately launched a manhunt for the suspect, 49-year-old Pedro Manuel Argote.
Earlier that day, Judge Wilkinson presided over a child custody case involving Argote. While Argote wasn’t present in the courtroom, the judge awarded full custody of their four children and possession of their home to Argote’s estranged wife. Additionally, Argote was ordered to pay over $1,100 monthly in child support and prohibited from contacting his family.
Image of Judge Andrew Wilkinson
The Sheriff’s Department revealed that deputies had responded to two prior incidents at Argote’s residence for alleged verbal domestic assaults, though no charges were filed. Despite having no criminal record, a petition for a protective order filed by Argote’s ex-wife accused him of physically abusing one of their children, sending harassing text messages, constant monitoring through security cameras, and falsely accusing the mother of child neglect.
Described as 5’7″ tall, weighing around 130 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes, Argote was last seen driving a silver 2009 Mercedes. Investigators located the vehicle in Williamsport, Maryland, but the suspect remains elusive.
The U.S. Marshals report that Argote has connections to Brooklyn and Long Island in New York, Tampa and Clearwater in Florida, Columbus, Indiana, and undisclosed locations in North Carolina. A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest. Authorities warn that he is armed and dangerous.
Image of Pedro Manuel Argote
To shed light on the dangers faced by judges and the ongoing search, former Chief Judge for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Honorable Larry Stangle, shared his insights. Expressing his sadness over the tragic event, Judge Stangle acknowledged the inherent vulnerability of judges who make life-altering decisions.
He emphasized that judges often face the wrath of disgruntled individuals affected by their rulings, particularly in family and civil litigation cases. While acknowledging that personal safety concerns are not always at the forefront, Judge Stangle admitted to feeling vulnerable at times during his 28 years on the bench, having received three credible threats himself.
Addressing security measures in place, Judge Stangle highlighted the availability of security details provided by the U.S. Marshals when credible threats are identified. He also mentioned the 2005 Congressional appropriation for home security protection for federal judges following the tragic murder of a Chicago Federal judge’s family members.
Judge Stangle expressed his concern over the potential motive in this case, if indeed Argote is responsible for the shooting. The fact that the judge’s ruling against Argote occurred mere hours before the incident is deeply troubling. Judge Stangle emphasized that judges, especially in family court, routinely make difficult decisions regarding child custody, often removing children from their parents.
The emotional intensity surrounding these cases, coupled with the personal impact of the judge’s decisions, creates a volatile situation. Judge Stangle stressed the importance of respecting the judicial process and pursuing appeals through appropriate channels rather than resorting to violence.
A particularly alarming aspect of the case is how Argote might have obtained Judge Wilkinson’s home address. While personal information is readily available online, Judge Stangle highlighted the 2022 Judicial Security and Privacy Act, enacted in response to the murder of a New Jersey Federal District Judge’s son. This act prohibits commercial data brokers from selling judges’ and their families’ personal information, offering some level of protection. However, it primarily applies to federal judges, leaving state judges like Judge Wilkinson potentially vulnerable.
As the manhunt for Argote continues, the hope is that law enforcement will apprehend him swiftly and bring justice to Judge Wilkinson’s grieving family. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with upholding the law and the need for continued efforts to ensure the safety and security of those who serve in the justice system.
