Professor Suja Thomas was quoted in a February 14th story published by VICE News.
Legal experts in the United States are questioning whether or not the U.S. legal system can fairly apply justice to an international figure like El Chapo, the notorious drug kingpin who is currently on trial in New York City.
Some are demanding an anonymous and partially sequestered jury, arguing that Chapo has an army of hitmen willing to do his bidding. El Chapo’s defense attorneys argue that this would be unfair treatment - partially sequestering the jury and escorting them in with armed guards would create a perception of danger, even though Chapo has not been charged with any violent crimes.
Suja Thomas, a professor at the University of Illinois College of Law who specializes in jury provisions and criminal procedure, said anonymous juries are inherently problematic and usually unnecessary, unless there’s proof the defendant has threatened or attempted to influence jurors.
"The Constitution tells us we have a presumption of innocence. I think everything about this goes against that," Thomas said after reading up on Chapo’s case. She added: "There’s no way this can be an impartial jury under these circumstances."
Read the full story at news.vice.com.