While the official announcement is not until tomorrow, it is being reported that former Cleveland Browns and Texas A&M University quarterback Johnny Manziel will be indicted on domestic violence charges. Philip Hilder, founder of Hilder & Associates in Houston and former federal prosecutor, focuses his practice on white collar criminal defense. He explains:
It is unusual but not unprecedented that a grand jury was utilized to consider whether to charge Mr. Manziel.  Though a grand jury was not needed in charging a misdemeanor, it can be  used, as here,  to shield a DA from criticism.  In this case, no matter the course of DA action, or inaction, there would be criticism in this high profile matter. It is easier for the DA to punt in this situation and let a body of citizens decide.