A former health care worker who illegally accessed the health records of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg before she passed away has been sentenced to two years in prison. Trent Russell, who was working as a transplant coordinator at the time, had access to hospital records across the region and was convicted of illegally accessing and altering health care records.
Russell was also accused of publishing this information online in 2019, during a time when there was public speculation about Ginsburg’s health. Prosecutors claimed that he posted false information about Ginsburg’s death on forums that spread antisemitic conspiracy theories. However, Russell denied these claims and even suggested that his cat may have accidentally accessed Ginsburg’s data.
During his sentencing, Russell’s lawyer argued for probation or home detention, highlighting Russell’s work as a transplant coordinator and his military service in Afghanistan. Despite this, the judge sentenced Russell to 24 months in prison, calling his actions “truly despicable conduct.”
The case raised questions about the severity of the crime, given Ginsburg’s status as a public figure. Prosecutors argued that her age, illness, and high public profile made her a vulnerable victim, while Russell’s lawyer claimed that her position of power made her the opposite of vulnerable.
In issuing the sentence, the judge took into account Russell’s family situation, noting that he has a sick step parent who may need care. The judge emphasized the sensitivity of health information, contrasting Russell’s actions with the privacy breach of Ginsburg’s medical records.
Russell and his lawyer did not comment on whether they plan to appeal the sentence. The case highlights the importance of protecting sensitive health information and the consequences of violating privacy laws, especially when it involves high-profile individuals like Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
