| Witness Box |
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| Spectator Gallery |
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The spectator gallery in Courtroom II was specially designed to permit public viewing of the proceedings even where classified information may be used. The gallery accommodates 34 spectators in raised seating to provide a view of the courtroom. It has video screens that play a closed-circuit television feed of the proceedings and a sound system that plays the audio feed. To prevent inadvertent disclosure of protected information, the gallery is separated from the trial area by soundproof glass, the audio feed to the spectators is delayed for 40 seconds and both the audio and video feed may be cut off if necessary |
| If victims or family members are present in the gallery, they enter last and are seated nearest to the exit. A curtain is available to separate the victims and family members from other spectators if they desire privacy. |
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| Holding Cells |
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As defendants are transported to and from the courtroom each day, they sometimes spend a considerable amount of time outside the courtroom during recesses or while awaiting transport. Consequently, the ELC contains holding cells that include bunks for sleeping, desks and sanitary facilities. |
The holding cells have a vestibule area where detainees can meet with counsel. The vestibule has electrical outlets so that counsel can plug in their computers or other equipment. The vestibule area can also be used to set up a telephone (secure or unsecure) so that counsel can make calls from the cell.
In the event that a detainee decides not to enter the courtroom or is removed for disruptive behavior, a television with a closed-circuit audio and video feed from the courtroom is provided in the cell. If the detainee requires the services of an interpreter, the defense team interpreter can sit in the vestibule area and provide those services.
If a hearing overlaps with designated Muslim prayer times, court is usually recessed and detainees are provided prayer time in the holding cells along with any required religious items.
These cells were specially designed for this mission in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service; they meet Marshals Service and U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons standards.
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