Want government accountability? Here’s how to join the Stanislaus Civil Grand Jury
Applications to be part of the Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury are now open, allowing residents to once again join its efforts to hold local agencies and elected officials accountable.
Last year, the grand jury’s report exposed rampant spending and alleged misuse of public funds by former Stanislaus County Council of Government Executive Director Rosa De Leon Park, who was fired in August.
The grand jury also recommended that Stanislaus County leaders create an oversight commission for the Sheriff’s Department after its investigation found the Regional 911 dispatch center was “fraught with divisive controversy.”
The primary function of the Civil Grand Jury is to act as the public watchdog by investigating and reporting on the affairs of local governmental agencies, including county and city government, special districts (such as the Modesto Irrigation District, etc.) and school districts.
The grand jury has struggled in recent years to find an adequate number of applicants. A grand jury member needs to fill the same requirements as a trial juror, such as at least being 18 years old and having U.S. citizenship.
Members also will be expected to commit about 20 hours per month to participate in meetings and proceedings remotely via telephone and/or video appearance (a smartphone and internet access are required).
A panel appointed by Superior Court of Stanislaus County Presiding Judge Sonny S. Sandhu will interview all applicants who qualify to serve. From those interviewed, Sandhu will select 30 finalists. Out of these finalists, a 19-member panel and six alternates will be selected by random drawing.
Those interested in serving on the grand jury are encouraged to contact its office at 209-525-4252 to request an application by mail. Or they can visit the Stanislaus County Superior Court website at www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/divisions/grand-jury/selectionapplication-process to download an application form.
The deadline to submit applications is April 15.
