John Chiv: Will race play a role in the trial and verdict in this murder case?

May 23, 2024

Will race play a role in the trial and verdict in this murder case?

Jury was sworn in and opening statements were made on 5/21 in Daniel Dozier's trial for murder. Mia Felder's parents missed the opening statement by Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees but they did hear Ms. Andrea Sullivan's opening statement. An older woman was talking to Dozier at the end of the day yesterday. Usually, he sits alone during court breaks.

During lunch break, I briefly ran into Mia's parents. Her mother noted the lack of people of color in Humboldt jury pools. My only response to Mia's parents was that I agree it is an issue in Humboldt. My suggestion to them was to focus on the evidence and that both Mr. Rees and Ms. Sullivan are skilled, professional attorneys.

Having covered cases and trials over 10 years in Humboldt, all the voir dire cannot screen out bias. If the defendant or victim is a person of color, the lack of diversity and a preponderance of older white jurors who cannot relate to urban or different cultures does have an impact on how they view people. From OR bail to verdicts, people of color do have a disadvantage in the criminal justice system and they do in Humboldt. Obviously the mighty dollar and connections can overcome any bias or treatment.