Victor Laslic

Victor Laslic is a juror whose anger toward eighteen year old Donald Wilson overwhelms his duty to consider a burglary charge fairly. He calls Donald worthless and argues that gang involvement deserves punishment even if the evidence does not prove this particular crime. As Eugene Meltsner exposes serious weaknesses in the case, Victor keeps inventing possibilities that preserve a guilty verdict. His certainty comes from a concealed connection: Victor once coached Donald in soccer, disliked his attitude, and suspected him when possessions disappeared. He had denied knowing the defendant during jury selection. The hidden prejudice disqualifies the jury and causes a mistrial. Bitter and judgmental, Victor shows how personal resentment can corrupt justice when it replaces evidence.