Summary:
David Letterman was rejected as a juror in a federal cryptocurrency fraud case.
Judge P. Kevin Castel questioned Letterman about his suitability for jury duty.
Letterman humorously claimed to work for Netflix during the questioning.
This is not the first time Letterman has been called for jury duty; he has been called many times.
Legal experts worry that Letterman's celebrity status could distract jurors.
David Letterman Misses Jury Duty for Cryptocurrency Fraud Case
“Juror 16,” aka comedian David Letterman, was unexpectedly rejected as a juror in a federal criminal trial without any explanation from the prosecutor.
Judge P. Kevin Castel questioned the former late-night talk show host during the jury selection process in Manhattan federal court on Monday, where Letterman was considered for a cryptocurrency fraud case.
Letterman initially feigned living in Hartford, which would have disqualified him from serving. However, Judge Castel quickly pointed out that he had also overlooked Queens, another jurisdiction that would have excluded him from consideration.
In a humorous exchange, Letterman mentioned he earns his living through a company called Netflix, referencing his talk show, “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction.” When asked about his history with jury duty, he remarked, “Been called many times. Just couldn’t make it happen.”
This isn’t Letterman’s first brush with jury duty; in 2000, he tried to secure a spot as an alternate juror in a car-accident case but ultimately did not make the cut due to timing issues.
Legal experts expressed concerns regarding Letterman’s celebrity status, suggesting that it could distract the jury. “You want people paying attention to the witnesses, not a fellow juror,” explained attorney Philip French.
As he made his way to court, Letterman greeted fans and passersby, leaving a memorable impression on those who encountered him. One dog walker, Jim Kontnier, shared, “I saw him approaching and thought, ‘Why do I know this person?’”
Barry Williams for New York Daily News
David Letterman reports to jury duty at Manhattan Federal court Tuesday.
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