A Cincinnati food pantry operated by the Probation Department of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, which has been credited with reducing recidivism and changing lives, was dedicated in honor of a federal judge's son who was tragically murdered in New Jersey.
The pantry was renamed Danny's Pantry on March 7, 2025, in honor of Daniel Anderl, the son of Judge Esther Salas and Attorney Mark Anderl. Daniel Anderl, 20, was shot and killed in 2020 at their home by a man targeting his mother, authorities said. The tragedy prompted Congress in 2022 to pass the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act which protects federal judges' private information. Additionally, a pantry in New Jersey was established in Daniel's memory to support individuals reentering society after incarceration or involvement with the justice system.
United States District Judge Michael J. Newman met Judge Salas at an event, and, after several discussions, it was decided that the Southern District of Ohio would honor her son by dedicating their food pantry to him. This pantry, which opened in 2014, has had a profound impact.
"It has truly changed lives, especially for those without support," said Marquita Howard, a probation officer and reentry specialist with the Southern District of Ohio. "(The people) are extremely grateful for the support. I have witnessed it firsthand—people’s lives and perspectives on the criminal justice system change."
The pantry is specifically designed for individuals on probation who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.
Howard noted that some individuals released after spending decades in prison face the challenge of reentering society with little to no family or support system. In addition to providing food and household essentials, the Probation Department offers rental assistance and other forms of aid to help them rebuild their lives.
Many individuals on probation struggle to trust their probation officers, Howard said, and some even believe probation officers receive bonuses or commendations for violating people. But that is not true.
The officers of the Southern District of Ohio work tirelessly to assist those on supervision, ensuring they have the support necessary to avoid reoffending and create a better future. The food pantry is a testament to the department’s dedication to bettering lives and improving outcomes.
"From my experience," Howard continued, "the individuals we work with are extremely appreciative, and because of that, they are motivated not to disappoint those who have supported them. This support encourages them to go the extra mile."
