We‘ve discussed the multiple problems with the grand jury system here in the US — a system that only survives in a handful of states. Grand juries are known both for their expedience and their willingness to indict nearly anyone for anything. True, they don‘t decide whether a person is guilty or innocent, but an indictment is the next best thing to a verdict for those indicted, many of which are imprisoned until they can be properly tried.

The grand jury in Harris County, Texas has an additional tool at its disposal, one not in use anywhere else in the state.