The Sul Ross State University Department of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice hosted its first-ever mock trial Friday, April 11, at the Brewster County Courthouse District Courtroom.
Students took on key roles as attorneys, witnesses and more with 394th District Judge Monty Kimball presiding in a realistic and engaging courtroom setting.
They included Isabela Holguin, Tannah Routledge, Saul Barrientes, Michelle Olivas, Angel Soto, Laila Salido, Melissa Fierro, Jasmine Garcia and Joseph Roberts.
“The students put on an incredible performance that was well-attended by both community members and legal professionals,” said Dr. Basibyuk Oguzha, the chair of the department. “Many audience members expressed how much they enjoyed it and congratulated our students for their dedication and professionalism.”
The mock trial highlighted the work and preparation of Sul Ross students, as well as the guidance and support of mentors and staff, including Chris Carlin, director of the Federal Public Defender’s Office in Alpine, Dr. Benjamin Barrientes, an adjunct professor of Criminal Justice, and Dr. Ercan Balcioglu, an assistant professor of Criminal Justice.
For more information, email oguzhan.basibuyuk@sulross.edu.
Photo: Students from the Department of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice acted as attorneys, witnesses and more.