Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales released the following statement:
"While we had hoped the return of jurors on June 1, 2021, would be a beginning of more normal court operations, we understand Judge Ron Rangel’s order to suspend jury service. We do not want a simple act of public service to put anyone’s health in jeopardy. Now is the time for all of us to do our part to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Until this potentially deadly virus is behind us, restrictions like this will lead to a further delay of justice for both victims and those accused of crimes. The backlog of pending cases will grow, but as we did beginning in March 2020, our staff will continue to review and work on cases as best we can either in-person or through virtual hearings. As I’ve said before, while most of our cases are resolved by plea agreement, a jury panel waiting outside the court is sometimes what it takes to make that happen. We will do all within our power to continue to bring justice to victims of crime as quickly as circumstances allow."
To read the order issued by Local Administrative Judge Ron Rangel, click here.