SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — The U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota says that criminal jury trials resumed this week in Aberdeen and Pierre.
However, the resumption began with some significant changes to reduce exposure to COVID-19.
These include reporting times for jurors that have been staggered to decrease congestion at security checkpoints and public elevators.
Jurors are assigned physically distanced seating in courtrooms and jury deliberation rooms.
The District of South Dakota also says that after a three-month hiatus, grand jury proceedings have resumed in some locations. They are using many the precautions we are taking regarding petit (trial) jurors are also being taken to ensure the health and safety of grand jurors.
Court also notes that although some hearings are being held in-person, most hearings continue to be held by video or teleconference, especially if a defendant is in custody.
