Kennewick Man Arrested After Death Threats Made Against Judges, KPD Officer

Herbert Girton faces multiple felony charges for threatening judges and police on social media and in person

Published on Jan. 30, 2026

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Kennewick Police have arrested a 41-year-old man named Herbert Girton after he allegedly made multiple threats against judges and a police officer on social media and in person. Girton was tracked down to his apartment where he was taken into custody without incident.

Why it matters

Threats against public officials, especially judges and law enforcement, are taken extremely seriously as they can disrupt the judicial process and put public safety at risk. This case highlights the importance of citizens reporting concerning online behavior to authorities.

The details

According to police, a concerned citizen notified the Benton County Sheriff's Office about social media posts from Girton in which he said he was watching a judge's house and would kill the judge's family and any officer who tried to arrest him. Kennewick Police quickly began investigating and located Girton at his apartment, where he made 'shooting' motions with his fingers towards the officers.

  • On Tuesday, January 28, 2026, officers were notified about the threats.
  • Around 4:15 PM on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, officers went to Girton's apartment and witnessed his threatening gestures.
  • Girton was arrested at his apartment shortly after without incident.

The players

Herbert Girton

A 41-year-old Kennewick resident who was arrested for making multiple threats against judges and a police officer.

Kennewick Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the threats and apprehended Girton at his apartment.

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What they’re saying

“Threats against public officials, especially judges and law enforcement, are taken extremely seriously as they can disrupt the judicial process and put public safety at risk.”

— Kennewick Police Department

What’s next

Girton is currently in the Benton County Jail facing multiple felony threat charges. Depending on the level of action and other factors, threatening to harm or kill a judge in Washington state is usually a Class B felony, which can land a person up to 10 years in jail plus fines.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of citizens reporting concerning online behavior to authorities, as threats against public officials can have serious consequences for the judicial process and public safety.