Jury selection begins for Felipe Cernan Reyes criminal case in Texas

In a pivotal jury selection process for the case of State vs. Felipe Cernan Reyes, Judge Stephanie Boyd emphasized the importance of impartiality among potential jurors during the proceedings held on May 28, 2025. The judge guided the jurors through the selection process, clarifying that their role is to listen to the facts presented in court over the next few days, while also ensuring they remain unbiased and open-minded.

Judge Boyd highlighted the critical nature of the jurors' responsibilities, stating, "The whole goal of this process is to make sure that we have jurors who are gonna sit and listen to the state's case." She encouraged jurors to express any concerns about their ability to remain impartial, particularly those who felt their personal beliefs might interfere with their judgment.

Several jurors raised their hands to indicate they had reservations about serving. One juror expressed a moral objection to judging others based on religious beliefs, while another voiced a rehabilitative perspective, stating, "I don't believe anybody should get 99 years." These sentiments reflect a broader discussion about the justice system's approach to punishment and rehabilitation.

The judge reiterated the legal principle that the burden of proof lies with the state, requiring them to establish guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." She clarified that the defense is not obligated to prove innocence, reinforcing the presumption of innocence that every juror must uphold as the trial progresses.

As the selection continued, it became evident that some jurors struggled with the concept of presumption of innocence, with a few openly stating they could not believe the defendant was innocent at that moment. Judge Boyd addressed these concerns directly, reminding jurors that their current mindset must align with the legal standard of innocence until proven guilty.

This jury selection process is crucial not only for the outcome of the Reyes case but also for reinforcing the foundational principles of the judicial system in Texas. The discussions highlighted the challenges jurors face in balancing personal beliefs with legal obligations, setting the stage for a trial that will test the integrity of the judicial process. As the case moves forward, the implications of these discussions will resonate within the community, emphasizing the importance of fair and impartial trials in upholding justice.