Students get first-hand view of how government works

It’s a case that could be ripped from the headlines.

Teenager Bill E. Kid is accused of drinking at a party and starting hay bales on fire at McDonald’s farm.

Will the jury believe the standout athlete? Or, will justice prevail for farmer who lost everything?

Students from Antelope County high schools conducted the mock trial during County Government Day, held Oct. 6 at the courthouse.

In addition to the trial, students met elected county officials, toured the law enforcement center and attended a learning session with the county official they were appointed to.

Antelope County Judge Donna Taylor explained the process a court case goes through, starting with the filing of a probable-cause affidavit.

Antelope County Attorney Joe Abler, along with Jeff Doerr, described their jobs as prosecutor and defender. Court magistrate Linda Mitchell and district court clerk Angela Mortensen gave instructions to students who filled those positions.

After evidence was presented and jury deliberations completed, Bill E. Kid was found not guilty by a jury of his peers.