Judge in O.J. Simpson Case and Former Swift Justice Host, Dies at 70
Jackie Glass, Judge in O.J. Simpson Case and Former Swift Justice Host, Dies at 70
Jackie Glass, whose career spanned journalism, the Nevada judiciary and courtroom television, has died at the age of 70.
The former judge and Swift Justice host died in Las Vegas on August 28, 2026. Her daughter, Rachel Wolfson, shared the news through an emotional social media tribute, remembering her mother with love and grief. Deadline
From the Nevada Bench to Television
Glass spent eight years serving on Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court, where she presided over both criminal and civil proceedings. She left the bench in 2011 to begin a new chapter in television.
She replaced Nancy Grace as the host of Swift Justice, a syndicated program that settled small claims disputes through binding arbitration. Glass led the show during its second and final season, which ended in April 2012.
The role allowed her to bring years of legal experience to television, addressing the everyday conflicts presented by participants in the program. AOL
The Simpson Trial Brought National Recognition
One of the most prominent moments of Glass’s judicial career came in 2008, when she sentenced O.J. Simpson to 33 years in prison following his convictions for armed robbery and kidnapping.
The case arose from a confrontation with sports memorabilia dealers at a Las Vegas hotel in 2007. Simpson remained in prison until his release on parole in 2017.
Her involvement in the closely watched proceedings made Glass a nationally recognized figure before she became a courtroom television host. AOL
Journalism Came Before Law
Glass began her professional life in broadcasting. After graduating from the University of Georgia, she relocated to Las Vegas and worked as a radio news reporter for KORK-AM.
She subsequently moved into television journalism at KTNV-TV Channel 13, serving as a reporter and news anchor.
Glass later pursued a legal education, earning her degree from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1984. Her eventual return to television through Swift Justice connected the two professions that had shaped her working life. AOL
Remembered by Family and Public Figures
In her tribute, Rachel Wolfson described her mother as her “rock,” conveying the deep bond they shared.
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley and Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez Masto also honored Glass, acknowledging her accomplishments and contributions to the community.
She is survived by her husband, Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, and their two daughters, Rachel and Rebecca. Rebecca continued the family’s connection to public service by becoming a Las Vegas municipal court judge. People
