Quote:
Originally Posted by Dad
Thank you!! One further question. Is it possible for the justice dep't to choose the federal district they feel is the most likely to be favorable to the prosecution and might that have some play in choosing this particlular district?
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Dad,
BLUF: Yes
The US Const and the rules allow for the government to elect the venue. So long as the crime started in one location, continued through other Districts and culminated in another, the government may elect any of the Districts in which to prosecute.
The defendant is free to challenge the govt's choice of venue and may argue that another is more appropriate. If the defendant is able to demonstrate there is an unfair prejudice to his ability to defend (or the inablility to empanel a fair and impartial jury) the US Dist Judge may decide another venue as more appropriate.
Speedy trials rarely happen and if he decides not to plead guilty, expect lots of pre-trial issues as the defense lawyers advocate on behalf of their case.
v/r
phil