The Better Business Bureau Warns Long-Running Jury Duty Scam Persists
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) details the ways jury duty scams continue to exploit individuals through threatening calls and emails, preying on their fear of law enforcement. Scammers pose as local law enforcement officials, claiming victims missed a jury duty summons and face arrest unless a hefty fine is paid via wire transfers, gift cards, digital wallets, or cryptocurrency. They often use legitimate-sounding caller IDs and official-sounding voices to appear credible, sometimes verifying personal details like the victim's name, address, and date of birth. Variations of the scam may also seek personal information for identity theft or distribute malware through fake email attachments. To avoid falling victim, be skeptical of urgent, unsolicited communications, research suspicious claims, ignore threatening calls, be wary of unusual payment requests, and seek advice from friends or family. Courts typically communicate through postal mail, not via email, text, or phone calls, unless otherwise specified.
The National Center provides tools to courts to help address this illegal activity. Courts can use the Jury Scam Toolkit and posters to inform vulnerable populations about the dangers of jury scams.
Prosecutor's Request Prevents Trump Indictment in Arizona
CBS News reportsthat a grand jury considered indicting former President Donald Trump alongside 18 others for their roles in falsely claiming that Trump won Arizona in the 2020 election. Ultimately, prosecutors advised against charging Trump, citing U.S. Justice Department policies and a lack of sufficient evidence at the time. Despite this, the indictment refers to Trump as an "unindicted coconspirator."
The case highlights the influence prosecutors can have on grand juries, which are intended to function as independent bodies under the Sixth Amendment. This independence can be challenged in high-profile cases, raising questions about the impartiality of grand jury decisions.
NashVillager Podcast Highlights Jury Duty Logistics
The NashVillager Podcast, hosted by WPLN, explores the logistics of jury duty, emphasizing the organized and orderly nature of the process. The episode highlights the "One Day, One Trial" approach, showcasing its efficiency in managing juror time and commitment. This Nashville-area podcast offers listeners a comprehensive look at how well-structured jury service can enhance the overall experience for all participants.
NPR Examines the Psychology of Jury Service
NPR's 1A podcastdelves into the mindset of jurors, offering a detailed perspective from jurors' experiences. The episode explores how serving on a jury, especially in high-profile cases, affects individuals both during and after their service. The discussion highlights the time, financial, and psychological impact these cases can have on jurors, shaping their views on subsequent jury duty. The episode provides insights into the significant role jurors play and the lasting effects jury duty can have on their mental well-being.