Court leaders are seeking residents interested in scrutinizing local governance and playing a key role in major criminal investigations as part of the Orange County grand jury, a panel that has continued its oversight role throughout the pandemic.

Prospective grand jurors can apply until Feb. 24 to serve one-year terms beginning on July 1 for the 19-member public watchdog panel, which investigates citizen complaints, prepares reports on the actions of government agencies and issues indictments for serious crimes.

Unlike grand juries in most other parts of the state, the Orange County grand jury continued its operations throughout the pandemic, using laptops and other technology to work remotely when necessary.

Over the past year, the grand jury has released a series of headline-grabbing reports, including a look at county gaps in planning for the pandemic, an investigation into the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s evidence-booking scandal and a deep dive into questions surrounding two local toll road systems.

“It gives them the opportunity to see how things in our county are run, with the ability to also have input and give recommendations on how to make it run better,” Maria Hernandez, Orange County Superior Court assistant presiding judge, said of grand jurors. “Especially through this pandemic.”

Unlike nearly all other jurisdictions in California, grand jurors in Orange County not only handle the civil oversight duties but also consider criminal indictments brought by prosecutors. Grand jurors can choose the focus of their own investigations, and have tools such as subpoena power.

Grand jury applicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen and have lived in the county for at least a year. They are given a $50 daily stipend and mileage reimbursements for what is essentially a 30-hour work week. Visitors and court employees are required to wear masks.

Those wishing to apply for the grand jury can call 657-622-6747 or visit ocgrandjury.org.

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