Being the good student I am, here is my weekly Blog.
3/18/09 - NY Times (couldn't find the proper underline button) online:
"As Jurors Turn to Wed, Mistrials Are Popping Up" by John Swartz
The article included about three examples, one a 8 wk. long trial, that was declared a mistrial due to jurors looking up information (i.e. Wikipedia, Google Earth), doing research on the case, Twittering, or even posting information on Facebook that a "big announcement" is coming on Monday.
Obviously, jurors aren't supposed to seek info. from outside the courtroom. In fact, there are very specific state by state laws on what evidence can be used.
"It is really impossible to control it," said the Pres. of the Am. Society of Trial Consultants. (No wonder why we as teachers have a hard time controlling it in the classroom!)
Another quote I found insightful by the author was "but w/the internet now as close as a juror's poclet, the risk has grown more immediate - and instinctual".
As a taxpayer I find this really frustrating. Not only does this open the doors for mistrials, but also appeals.
Again, more fuel to my fire - Technology is Overrated!!! :)
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1 comment:
Or, to play devil's advocate, since technology seems inevitable, this scenario reinforces how important it is to learn (and for schools to teach) media LITERACY as well as etiquette, responsible use, etc.
I was shocked by this article, too, and I've thought about it quite a bit since. To me, this seems more of an issue of things like common sense, etiquette, rule-following, being a responsible citizen, etc., etc. But, it is true that the technology makes it easier for these (insert adjective here) people break rules and be irresponsible.
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