Residents of the Kenai Peninsula Borough are gearing up for a pivotal assembly meeting where local advocate David Haeg will present an update on investigative grand juries, spotlighting ongoing concerns about judicial integrity in Alaska. Scheduled for today, December 2, 6pm, the brief presentation promises to delve into a series of resolutions that have fueled calls for greater transparency and accountability in the state’s legal system.
The presentation stems from a history of borough-approved resolutions that initiated scrutiny of the grand jury processes. It began with Resolution 2022-004, adopted unanimously on January 18, 2022, which affirmed the constitutional right of Alaska grand juries to investigate public welfare issues and urged legislative reforms for independent probes. This was followed by Resolution 2023-026 on March 14, 2023, also passing 8-0, which specifically requested hearings on grand jury independence and alleged violations through Supreme Court Orders like SCO 1993, which critics say restrict citizen access to juries. Similar endorsements came from the City of Kenai (Resolution 2022-45) and City of Homer (Resolution 22-020(A)), highlighting a regional push against perceived encroachments on constitutional powers.
Haeg’s 10-minute presentation, titled “Investigative Grand Jury Update,” will emphasize the significance of these efforts in combating alleged judicial corruption. It underscores the grand jury’s historical role in Alaska, citing past instances where grand juries tackled government misconduct, such as the 1985 probe into Governor William Sheffield’s dealings that led to impeachment proceedings. The importance lies in restoring public trust: unchecked corruption erodes equal protection under the law, as grand juries serve as a citizen safeguard when oversight fails.
The public can participate in person at the Betty J. Glick Assembly Chambers or virtually via Zoom. Written comments may be submitted in advance through the borough’s clerk office. Advocates hope this meeting will galvanize actions such as demanding the release of sealed reports and forming an independent commission.