Study suggests underrepresentation of minorities among jury pools

Minority groups are underrepresented among potential jurors in Burleigh and Morton counties, preliminary findings from a study of the state's jury system suggest.

The disparities raise concerns about the fairness of jury trials in a state where minorities are arrested and imprisoned at disproportionate rates, according a 2012 state report on racial and ethnic bias in the courts.

In order to address potential disparities, the Minority Justice Implementation Committee, which ordered the study, is looking at ways to expand the list of people eligible to serve and include people who may not vote or drive.

http://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/study-suggests-underrepresentation-of-minorities-among-jury-pools/article_addc6b93-774d-5538-953e-ed9a0c4faa20.html