Convictions Vacated Due to Juror Misconduct by First Circuit- Narcotics Matter

The First Circuit Court of Appeals in U.S. v. Bristol-Martir No. 06-2722, ordered a new trial because jurors during the trial improperly conducted an internet search for legal terminology. Even though the District Court inquired into the conduct, it fatally did not - according to a unanimous panel- ask jurors whether they had been influenced by the improper research.