Durham County Concludes First Criminal Jury Trial Following COVID-19 Restrictions

NEWS RELEASE
January 28, 2021
For immediate release

Durham County Concludes First Criminal Jury Trial Following COVID-19 Restrictions

DURHAM, NC — Durham County held its first criminal jury trial since such proceedings were put on hold due to the pandemic last year. The animal cruelty trial began January 20 and concluded on January 27 without interruptions due to COVID-19.

“The safety and well-being of our community is the top priority of the Durham DA’s Office. Throughout the pandemic, our staff and other court personnel have worked tremendously hard to find a balance between our duty to continue the important functions of the court and protecting the health of everyone who comes through the courthouse,” said Durham County District Attorney Satana Deberry.

“I’m thankful that this trial went smoothly and that we did not have any reported COVID-19 cases, symptoms, or quarantining among those involved,” Deberry said. “The Durham DA’s Office extends its appreciation to courthouse staff and especially to the residents of Durham County who served as witnesses, jurors, and prospective jurors.”

The case (State v. Ray Marshall Lawson, 16CRS56881) was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Kendra Montgomery-Blinn, with assistance from Victim Service Coordinator Amanda Gardner. Superior Court Judge Josephine Kerr Davis presided. The jury found the defendant guilty of felonious animal cruelty, which is a Class H felony. Animal control officers with the Durham County Sheriff’s Office had located one severely emaciated horse and three deceased horses on property rented by the defendant.

The trial was held in accordance with Durham County’s jury trial resumption plan, which outlines measures to protect the health of those in court in line with CDC guidelines, ensure the integrity of trial proceedings, and preserve public access to the courts. The plan was approved by local court officials as well as the county health director.

Among the most noticeable changes made in light of the pandemic was the placement of the jury. To ensure proper social distancing, jurors and prospective jurors were staggered in the audience, rather than the jury box. An additional courtroom was set aside for overflow during jury selection and deliberations.

Visitors to the Durham County courthouse must wear face coverings, have their temperatures checked, and answer COVID-19 screening questions. All courtrooms have reduced seating capacities and are marked to ensure social distancing. Courtrooms and meeting rooms are sanitized on a regular basis and hand sanitizer stations are present throughout the building.

The Durham County District Attorney’s Office employs about 40 people, including prosecutors, administrators, victim service coordinators, legal assistants, and support staff. The Office is led by District Attorney Satana Deberry, who took office on January 1, 2019. The Office handles all criminal cases in Durham County.