DC Grand Juries Signal a Shift: High-Profile Protest Cases Spark Controversy as Indictments Fall Flat

Washington, D.C. — Serving on a federal grand jury can be an arduous yet insightful experience, as described by an individual reflecting on their time with the jury in the nation’s capital. Their experience, spanning five intense weeks, included daily sessions from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by evenings filled with work at a law firm. This demanding schedule, however, fostered a sense of privilege in engaging with a diverse group of citizens focused on one critical task: assessing whether there was sufficient evidence for the prosecution of criminal cases. Recently, several D.C. grand … Read more

"Reimagining Grand Juries: Legal Scholar Advocates for Enhanced Juror Input in Police Shooting Cases to Prevent Future Tragedies"

Akron, Ohio — A recent decision by a Summit County grand jury to decline criminal charges against a police officer involved in the shooting of a local man has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of the grand jury process. Law professor Michael Gentithes from the University of Akron argues that current protocols often reduce the role of jurors to a simple yes or no vote, preventing them from providing valuable insights that could help prevent future police violence. Gentithes criticizes the grand jury system’s lack of transparency, suggesting that it fails to utilize the “lay … Read more

Unpacking the Challenges: Federal Grand Juries and the Epstein Case

New York, NY — The case of Jeffrey Epstein continues to send ripples through the justice system, raising serious questions about the conduct and effectiveness of federal grand juries. Epstein, a financier with connections to the powerful and elite, was arrested in July 2019 on charges of sex trafficking, only to die in jail shortly thereafter under suspicious circumstances, prompting widespread public outcry and scrutiny. The intricacies of the federal grand jury system often raise concerns about transparency and accountability, particularly in high-profile cases like Epstein’s. Critics argue that the grand jury process can be … Read more

Series Mania Festival Sets Stage in Lille: Star-Studded Juries Announced, Featuring Global Cinema Luminaries

Lille, France – At a press conference this morning, Laurence Herszberg, managing director of Series Mania, alongside artistic director Frédéric Lavigne, unveiled plans for the upcoming edition of the renowned festival. The announcement followed introductory remarks from local and regional leaders, including representatives from the Hauts-de-France Region, the City of Lille, and the French National Cinema Centre (CNC). This year, Series Mania’s international competition promises a dynamic and diverse jury chaired by celebrated American creator, screenwriter, producer, and actress Pamela Adlon, known for her work in “Better Things”, “Louie”, and “Californication”. Joining her will be … Read more