Somerset County Employs Texas Firm to Overhaul Jury Selection After Trial Delay Sparks Reform

Somerset County, Pa. — In a significant overhaul aimed at ensuring a more representative jury pool, Somerset County has enlisted a Texas-based firm to upgrade its jury selection system. The decision comes on the heels of a postponed homicide trial last month, which was delayed after objections over the existing selection methods were raised during court proceedings. The county aims to have the new system from Judicial System Inc. in place by March, in time for the rescheduled trial. Until recently, Somerset County employed a relatively narrow method for selecting potential jurors, relying primarily on … Read more

Somerset Hills Communities Band Together with New Ordinances to Tackle Rising Theft and Home Invasions

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — In a collaborative effort to tackle an increasing number of car thefts and home burglaries, six towns in northern Somerset County have introduced new ordinances aimed at enhancing local law enforcement’s ability to fight crime. Bedminster, Bernards Township, Bernardsville, Bridgewater, Far Hills, and Peapack-Gladstone are the municipalities taking this proactive stance. Local officials have developed these ordinances in response to a notable escalation in thefts, including motor vehicle thefts, home burglaries, and invasions. These laws are designed to supplement existing legal mechanisms, facilitating police efforts where state prosecution falls short. This … Read more