The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio welcomed the Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency to the Potter Stewart U.S. Courthouse in Cincinnati where the group experienced a tailor made, environmentally focused tour.

The agency contracts with the Ohio EPA and contacted the Court seeking information on topics like what to expect when a person is called as a witness during a trial. The agency brought 16 people to the tour on Feb. 27 and spoke with U.S. District Judge Douglas R. Cole and a representative from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio hosts many tours throughout the year at all three Courthouses. The tours allow the Court to connect with the community it serves as well as helping the community take interest in the roles and functions of the federal judiciary.

Any organization or agency interested in visiting can contact the Court and staff will work with them to create a unique experience.

“It was great use of time learning about Cincinnati history and training our staff and using it as a team building exercise,” Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency Inspections and Compliance Manager Kerri Castlen said.

She said she appreciated Case Administrator Emily Hiltz setting up a tour that was focused on the group’s needs. The agency regularly responds to air quality complaints and handles administrative enforcement actions, she said, but employees have been deposed in the past and they work with a criminal task force when necessary.

The group was able to talk to an Assistant U.S. Attorney about collecting evidence and keeping good notes as well as how to present their findings in Court.

"It encompassed tasks that are a part of our daily operations, proving immensely beneficial," Castlen remarked. "Overall, it was a great learning experience."