Students from Boston Middle School High Ability program received a lesson on how LaPorte Circuit Court operates on Friday, May 6.
They were invited into Judge Alevizos’ courtroom. Magistrate Pam Munsey was on the bench during criminal call. Students observed initial hearings, a trial setting hearing, and a plea entry hearing. Derek Deck, Chief of Staff in LaPorte Circuit Court, gave students a tour of the courtroom, jury room and the chambers of Judge Alevizos. Mr. Deck gave students a brief history of the courtroom, including the famous trial of serial killer, Belle Gunness. Leslie Marshall, a student at BMS, stated that her favorite part of the field trip was observing the process in the courtroom.
The field trip concluded with a tour at the LaPorte County Jail given by Deputy Scott Pierce and Deputy Shirley Butiste. Our tour included the initial screening area, the holding tanks, and control room for the female/male cell blocks. Aaron Kroening, a student at BMS, stated his favorite part about visiting the jail was learning about the layout of the jail and all the different cell blocks. Emma Fleshman, a student at BMS, offered this perspective upon seeing people incarcerated and wearing handcuffs and chains in the courtroom: It was an eye-opening experience and demonstrated the importance to stay on track and make the right choices in life.
It was a great opportunity for students to learn about the functions of the courtroom and county jail. We appreciate the county officials for taking their time to inform our students.