Kansas Supreme Court upholds convictions in child abuse cases, addresses jury instructions and prosecutorial remarks
In State v. Naputi, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld a jury’s guilty verdict on seven counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child under 14, highlighting several issues relevant to jury trials, including jury instructions, closing arguments, and the limits of jury nullification.
The Court reviewed claims that the prosecutor made improper comments during closing arguments, including a misstatement of the law by suggesting that intent could be inferred solely from touching. While acknowledging the misstatement, the justices concluded that the trial judge’s clear jury instructions accurately outlined the legal standard and that jurors were presumed to follow those instructions. The Court emphasized the importance of context in closing arguments and found no prejudicial impact that would justify overturning the verdict.
Naputi also asked the trial court to instruct the jury on its power to nullify the law—returning a not guilty verdict even if the facts supported a conviction. The Court reaffirmed Kansas precedent that trial courts are not required, and indeed are prohibited, from giving a jury nullification instruction. Jurors may choose to nullify, but the law does not compel judges to inform them of that discretion.
The case reaffirms existing Kansas law that jurors must be guided by the facts and legal standards as provided by the court.
New Jersey monthly magazine spotlights “Jury Wrangler”Rachel Brooks for bringing positivity and purpose to Essex County jury duty
Jury duty in Essex County, New Jersey, comes with an unexpected perk: the cheerful leadership of Jury Manager Rachel Brooks. For more than a decade, Brooks has overseen the summoning, selection, and support of up to 6,000 jurors each month, guiding them through the process with clarity, warmth, and humor—whether in person or over Zoom.
Jurors frequently share how Brooks transforms what many dread into an enjoyable and meaningful experience. Social media users rave about her charisma and communication skills, praising her ability to make everyone feel seen and appreciated. Her personal story—from stepping in to support her family during difficult times to building a fulfilling public service career—resonates with many.
Brooks uses her platform to remind jurors that service is both a civic duty and a constitutional right, emphasizing the value of participating in the justice system. With no plans to retire, she continues to inspire jurors and staff alike with her dedication, kindness, and infectious positivity.
Rachel’s leadership reflects that of many jury managers throughout the country. Jurors deserve effective jury management that prioritizes customer service and compassion. Jury staff serve as the bridge between the public and the court system, and it is great that those efforts are being recognized by the press.
Jurors for fun? Immersive theater turns civic duty into date night
The New York Times reports that, in a surprising cultural twist jury service is becoming a form of live entertainment—and people are paying for the experience. A growing trend in immersive theater, such as London's Jury Games, invites participants to play jurors in fictional criminal trials. For around $60, attendees sift through evidence, deliberate, and reach a verdict in under 90 minutes—all in good fun. Similar productions are emerging across North America and Europe, including The Jury Experience and Murder Trial Tonight, offering true-crime fans a hands-on version of their favorite genre.
While these experiences lack the weight and responsibility of actual jury duty, organizers say they tap into the public’s fascination with courtroom drama—from 12 Angry Men to modern hits like Jury Duty and Clint Eastwood’s Juror #2. They’re fast-paced, interactive, and yes, you can even bring your drink.
Though the format is far from authentic, the creators argue that the popularity of jury-themed entertainment reflects the public's ongoing curiosity about the jury process. And while some may laugh at the idea of “pay-to-play” jurors, these immersive experiences can actually boost awareness and appreciation of real-life jury service—one laugh and fake verdict at a time.
Upcoming webinar: “Creating a Juror-Centered Experience: Reducing Barriers, Optimizing Time, and Supporting Mental Health”
Join NCSC on April 9, from 3 - 4:15 p.m. ET for a dynamic webinar exploring how courts can reduce barriers to jury service, use jurors’ time more efficiently, and provide meaningful mental health support.
Drawing from NCSC’s 2024 Preserving the Future of Juries and Jury Trials report, this session will spotlight practical strategies and real-world innovations.
NCSC's Morgan Moffett, Senior Court Research Analyst, moderates the discussion with panelists:
- Chief Justice David Thomson, Supreme Court of New Mexico
- Julie Hamil, Rhode Island State Court Administrator
- Patrick Martin, Jury Commissioner, Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
This session will highlight innovative approaches and best practices from courts across the country to ensure jury service is accessible, efficient, and supportive.
Email Laney Snyder for questions.