Hollister
– County court officials hope to release the 2006-07 grand
jury’s final report Wednesday, but they’re struggling to recruit
members for the new session, which began July 1.
Hollister – County court officials hope to release the 2006-07 grand jury’s final report Wednesday, but they’re struggling to recruit members for the new session, which began July 1.
“We’re struggling a little bit,” said Gil Solorio, executive clerk for the San Benito County Superior Court.
The grand jury investigates county government and the county jail, and reviews complaints from citizens about county government agencies. The grand jury also has the power to hand down criminal indictments.
Up to 19 jurors will be selected, with a minimum of 12 to form the grand jury. But some who applied have lost interest, leaving the jury short four members, Solorio said.
Prospective grand jurors submit applications to the Office of the Jury Commissioner. After applications are reviewed, San Benito County Superior Court’s presiding judge makes appointments.
To be eligible to serve, applicants must be at least age 18, a U.S. citizen, a county resident for at least one year and have a firm grasp of English. Elected officials and felons are ineligible.
Solorio said the service is often stigmatized but serves an important function.
“It serves the community,” Solorio said. “It’s part of the checks and balances.”
Grand jury members are expected to commit up to 20 hours per month to attend meetings and other grand jury responsibilities. Volunteers will be reimbursed for expenses while serving.
John Sitton, San Benito Chapter president of the California Grand Jurors’ Association, said the state provides training for those selected.
As for the final report from this past grand jury session, it should be available by Wednesday, Solorio said. The report is being distributed to government agencies, which have two days to review the document before it is released to the public.
