Fayette

The role of juries is the topic for April 11 forum at Fayette campus

The popular CSI: Fayette series -- a series of public forums that examine topics related to crime and law enforcement issues -- is gearing up to continue in 2011. The first forum is slated from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 11, in the Corporate Training Center at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. This first CSI: Fayette (Crime Subjects Investigated) forum for 2011 will examine the role of juries in the criminal justice system.

The panelists for the event include Fayette County Judge Steve Leskinen; Assistant District Attorney Michlle Kelley; Attorney Mark Mehalov from Zebley, Mehalov & White Law Offices in Uniontown; Barb Eicher, a recent Fayette County juror; a representative from the Pennsylvania State Police; and Richard Ball, professor of administration of justice at Penn State Fayette.
 
Jurors have an important role when it comes to the American Justice System, explained Ball. “Juries are the bedrock of the American Criminal Justice System, ensuring the involvement of the people and educating citizens about the legal system. In a time when democracy is under siege throughout the world, it is especially important that we protect it at home, and the way to do that is through citizen participation.” The experience can be a rewarding one, Ball said. “Research on American juries tends to show that, while we have our problems, most jurors do a good job and come out with a real sense of pride in themselves and the system.”
 
Penn State Fayette partnered with the Herald-Standard to present these community forums to offer an opportunity for area residents to learn about and discuss topics of interest related to local crime and law enforcement. The forums are free to the public. No reservations are required.

 

Last Updated April 6, 2011

Contact