Memphis school board member Tomeka Hart has been chosen as foreperson of a federal grand jury.
Hart’s name appeared on an indictment released by the clerk’s office this month. The foreperson routinely signs indictments. She confirmed to the Flyer that she has been serving since July and expects her term to last another year and a half. Typically, there is more than one grand jury operating at the same time. Grand jurors hear prosecutors present evidence in criminal cases and decide whether or not to indict.
Hart is the second prominent Memphian to serve recently as a foreperson in the federal system. In 2005-2006, former Commercial Appeal editor Angus McEachran did the job.
Former Memphis school board member Michael Hooks Jr. was indicted on federal charges several months before Hart began her jury duty. His case is scheduled for trial later this year.