Getting a trying experience

CELINA - The courtroom became silent as Lilo Pelekai's older sister, Nani, took the stand on Friday afternoon at Immaculate Conception School.

Accused of endangering Lilo, Nina, played by Brooke Faber, argued her innocence during the nearly hourlong mock trial with more than 30 attendees.

Mercer County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Mary Pat Zitter presided over the case. She listened as the prosecutor argued that Nina had put Lilo in danger by letting Lilo have Stitch, an alien dog whose creator, Dr. Jumba Jookib, had labeled as unsafe. Meanwhile, the defense argued Nina was a loving guardian who would have done anything for her little sister.

The case was part of the school's mock trial lunch program under the leadership of Mercer County Assistant Prosecutor Josh Muhlenkamp.

Over nine weeks, fifth- and sixth-graders learned the ins and outs of the legal system and planned for the cartoon character's trial.

Knowing that, Zitter emphasized the students did a great job of preparing for the case in that short amount of time.

"I was really impressed by the questions and the cross-examinations and the witnesses. It was just an excellent job," she said.

Muhlenkamp echoed Zitter's comments, adding that "it's hard to prepare questions for cases like this."

I.C. principal and Josh's mother, Polly Muhlenkamp, said the lunch program is a good learning experience for the students.

In the past, students have also learned about cooking, wood carving, science and sign language.

Students enjoyed participating in the mock trial, Polly Muhlenkamp pointed out, adding the experience exposes them to a possible legal career.   

Working with the students has been a fun experience, Josh Muhlenkamp said.

"It's a nice change of pace from the daily grind of practicing law," he said. "It gives them a chance to develop critical thinking and public-speaking skills."

These skills will benefit the students in life, the Muhlenkamps said.

When the time came to decide Nina's destiny, the jury consisting of students in the audience voted by raising their hands.

She was found not guilty and cleared on all charges.