Process servers are very important civil servants who keep the judicial system running full steam ahead, but they aren’t often given credit for their efforts. In fact, many process servers are treated with disdain, disrespect, and even violence because they are typically the messengers of bad news. The residents of Carroll County, Maryland have come to realize that the hard way after one of their neighbors shot and attempted to kill a process server in December 2015.
Christian Shenk’s Crime
Forty-one-year-old Christian Shenk of Winfield, Maryland was charged with second-degree attempted murder after he tried to shoot his process server, and just this month the jurors in his court hearing deliberated as to whether he did commit second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in a crime of violence. The potential charges are hefty, especially against a civil servant.
Shenk’s defense lawyer stated that he attempted to shoot his process server for self-defense, defense of others, and defense of home. While the process server’s lawyer used Shenk’s own words to prove that his actions did not fall under any of the three categories of defense, Shenk’s attorney worked to depict the process server as a dishonest “snake.”
Will Shenk Be Charged?
Shenk’s trial was intense, to say the least, as the process server’s attorney used all resources available to prove that he had indeed been assaulted. A video from Shenk’s then-girlfriend even highlighted her points and proved that the process server never made any threats toward Shenk. “The only aggressor, the only aggressor in this incident is Mr. Shenk himself,” she told the jurors. Shenk’s lawyer said the opposite, and the jury has yet to make a decision.
Working to Protect All Process Servers
Given the risks to which process servers are exposed each day, there is now a PAAPRS campaign, which stands for “Promoting Assault Awareness and Protective Regulations for Servers.” This important campaign focuses on raising awareness to the hidden dangers of serving legal documents, including threats, physical violence, and other aggressive reactions. PAAPRS provides national coverage of all server-related assault occurrences, as well as educational resources and a chat forum for process servers to share their experiences.
