Burlington County Juror Did Own Research, Caused Mistrial: Feds

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ - A Burlington County man has been fined $11,227 and found in contempt of court for doing outside research while serving on a federal criminal jury, federal authorities announced on Tuesday.

He shared his findings with the other jurors, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael Honig.

The juror was not named, and authorities didn’t say which case he was serving on.

The juror conducted Internet research into the case he was serving on during a recess in the case, even though all 12 members of the jury were instructed not to do their own research, according to statements made in court.

Judge Kugler in Camden federal court had specifically instructed jurors not to conduct their own research, both verbally and in writing, authorities said.

The juror shared their findings with the other members of the jury as it deliberated the case, resulting in a mistrial, authorities said.

The fine represents court costs for empaneling the jury, authorities said.