Girls Scouts Learn About The Court System

Mahaska County Deputy Sheriff Doug McMillan shows the ‘evidence’ he collected during his investigation to the jury of Girl Scouts.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The verdict came in, with each jury member polled, and each jury member came back with the same result. Guilty!

This past week, some Oskaloosa Girl Scouts from troop #286 got the opportunity to participate as jurors during a mock trial, during which they learned how a trial operates.

The County Attorney James Blomgren and Defense Attorney Eric Palmer each presented their case before District Court Judge Randy DeGeest over information that a suspect, played by Sone Scott, was responsible for a stolen bike.

Scott is the scout leader of troop #286, and was the defendant in the mock trial.

Court Attendant Kim Andeway and Court Reporter Sue McMillan helped by providing their services, in order to provide a more thorough experience for the scouts.

Mahaska County Deputy Sheriff Doug McMillan presented the evidence he collected during his ‘investigation’, then the accused, Scott, took to the stand in her own defense.

Learning about the court system, its function and its protocol can be daunting and often times intimidating for those experiencing it for the first time.

All of the volunteer effort put into place was to help the girls gain a better understanding of government and the court system and will go towards earning a merit badge.