On October 14th, Sidney Reid’s trial in U.S. District Court will test whether DC residents who have strong opinions about or personal experiences with federal agents’ controversial tactics can serve on juries—a Sixth Amendment question with far-reaching implications.

Cato Legal Fellow Michael Fox analyzes how the prosecution, led by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, has pursued Reid through three failed felony indictments before settling on a rare misdemeanor charge.

Fox argues the trial will confront prosecutors’ fears of jury nullification—the historic power of citizen jurors to reject unjust prosecutions. The Vicinage Clause requires jurors from the community where crimes occurred, ensuring local context shapes justice.

This trial represents a constitutional flashpoint where prosecutorial overreach meets community-based jury rights.

If you would like to speak with Fox about the upcoming trial, please reach out to Madison: mmiller@​cato.​org.