18 U.S. Code § 3332 – Powers and Duties of Grand Jury

Understanding the role and responsibilities of a federal grand jury

Statutory Text:
(a) It shall be the duty of each grand jury impaneled within any judicial district to inquire into offenses against the criminal laws of the United States alleged to have been committed within that district. Such alleged offenses may be brought to the attention of the grand jury by the court or by any attorney appearing on behalf of the United States for the presentation of evidence. Any such attorney receiving information concerning such an alleged offense from any other person shall, if requested by such other person, inform the grand jury of such alleged offense, the identity of such other person, and such attorney’s action or recommendation.

Key Points:

• Grand juries have the duty to inquire into federal criminal offenses within their district
• Offenses can be brought to the grand jury’s attention by the court or U.S. attorneys
• U.S. attorneys must inform the grand jury of alleged offenses when requested by the person providing the information

Grand Jury Powers and Independence

The grand jury has historical roots in English common law and was incorporated into the American legal system as a safeguard against arbitrary prosecution. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to grand jury indictment for serious federal crimes.

Courts have interpreted 18 U.S.C. § 3332 as creating a duty for U.S. attorneys to present information from citizens to the grand jury when requested, though the scope and enforcement of this duty have varied across jurisdictions.

Civil Rights Statutes

18 U.S.C. § 241 (Conspiracy Against Rights) and § 242 (Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law) are important federal criminal statutes that protect civil rights:

• Section 241: Prohibits conspiracies to interfere with constitutional rights
• Section 242: Criminalizes deprivation of rights by those acting under color of law
• Both statutes protect constitutional and federal statutory rights
• These are criminal statutes enforced by federal prosecutors

How to Use These Resources

These documents are provided for educational and informational purposes only.

Review these materials to understand the legal framework and processes related to the Palm Beach County Grand Jury Oversight Committee initiative.

For specific legal advice related to your situation, consult with a qualified attorney.