"Ex-wife's Accusations of Child Abuse Preceded Maryland Judge's Targeted Killing"

The ex-wife of the man suspected of killing a Maryland judge last week had accused him of physically abusing one of their children and engaging in harassment and threats in a court filing last year. The petition for a protection order detailed instances of abuse and mistreatment, including claims of physical violence against the child. The ex-wife sought help from a domestic violence advocacy center and relatives, but the petition was dismissed two weeks after it was filed. The judge had granted the ex-wife custody of their children and banned the suspect from contacting or visiting them. The shooting is believed to be in response to the judge's custody decision.