Students from English 10 at Random Lake high school class participated in a mock trial held at the Sheboygan County Courthouse on May 12, 2025. The trial was presided over by Judge Samantha Bastil of Sheboygan Circuit Court Branch 1 and focused on the fictional case of People v. Vega.
In the case, Adrian Vega, a high school student and star swimmer, faced charges of felony hit and run causing serious bodily injury to bicyclist Cameron Douglas.
A team of students served as the prosecution: Alex Beyer, Nolan Goehring, Tegan Hall, Simon Schwabe, and Aiden King. The prosecution argued that while physical evidence linked a black 1967 Bueller to the accident, they still had to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Vega was behind the wheel and intentionally fled the scene without offering assistance.
The prosecution’s first witness was Officer Kelly Wright, portrayed by Caroline Grube, who described the investigation and the reasons Vega was arrested. They also called Toni DeLuca, portrayed by Anabelle Bagley, who was allegedly in the car with Vega at the time of the accident. Finally, Cameron Douglas, portrayed by Brooke Heider, testified about her injuries and what she remembered about the vehicle and driver.
Representing the defense were Danika Eberhardt, Alaya Ramirez, Taylor Meyer, and Vladimir Anzures. The defense argued that Toni DeLuca, not Adrian Vega, was driving the car that night. Their first witness, Aubrey Fox, portrayed by Taylor Meyer, testified that she saw Toni at the driver’s side door, appearing to be preparing to drive. Next, Dallas Decamp, portrayed by Dominic Schreurs, a witness to the accident and one of Vega’s swim coaches, spoke about Adrian’s character. Finally, Adrian Vega, portrayed by Tucker Hiller, took the stand to testify in his own defense, insisting Toni was the one driving when the accident occurred.
After all testimony was heard and both sides presented their closing arguments, Judge Bastil provided detailed feedback, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement for each team.
“The authentic audience is what makes this event so impactful for students,” said Andria Peterson, high school English teacher. “They rise to the challenge when they know a real judge is evaluating their work. I hope to provide more opportunities like this because the learning is powerful and memorable.”
The mock trial gave students a firsthand experience of courtroom procedures, argumentation, and public speaking in a real-world setting, offering a unique and engaging way to apply their English skills.
Article written by Andria Peterson, RTI and Gifted and Talented Coordinator, School District of Random Lake