MOORHEAD, Minn. (KFGO) - KFGO News has learned that two Clay County prosecutors have been disciplined because of derogatory comments made about a jury on social media.
The remarks were posted on Facebook after a jury acquitted a man of sexual misconduct. Following the verdict, prosecutor Pam Harris referred to the jury as "12 idiots." Prosecutor Jenny Samarzja replied in agreement with the words "wake up people."
Clay County Attorney Brian Melton says the comments are indefensible. “I apologize to the jurors who worked as hard as they did on that trial; and really do apologize to all of the citizens of Clay County” Melton said. "The words that were used were completely and utterly wrong.”
Melton says his office began investigating the attorneys after he learned about the comments from courthouse staff.
Melton says the attorneys have been given written reprimands, but he says there's still the potential for more severe action, such as suspensions.