American Corner Yerevan

Evidence of Crime Obtained Unlawfully

1:00pm 20.06.2009

On June 20, 2009, U.S. Embassy Regional Legal Advisor Steve Kessler gave a public lecture at the American Corner in Yerevan entitled “Evidence of Crime Obtained Unlawfully.” Mr. Kessler began with a presentation on the U.S. Constitution and the role that it plays in the day-to-day lives of Americans.

Discussing specific examples, the guest speaker spoke about the process of being accused of a crime and the way in which prosecution moves forward. He noted that this process varies depending on which state the alleged crime took place in. Mr. Kessler stressed that not all instances of the violation of the law are necessarily prosecuted. The police have to have clear evidence to press their case against the accused in court. Individuals convicted of a crime may be sentenced to different types of punishments, which may include such things as fines, community service, imprisonment, etc. Mr. Kessler discussed the American jury system and how citizens are selected for jury duty. He also elaborated on how those accused of a crime are taken into custody.

A lively discussion took place after the presentation. Many students were interested with the topics of rehabilitation and capital punishment and how these issues are relevant today in Armenia.