Several former Stanford Band members had at least one thing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. On Friday, Nov. 17, Jay Boyarsky, supervising deputy district attorney for the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office in Palo Alto, confirmed that no criminal charges will be filed against the Stanford Band members involved with the vandalism to the Stanford Band Shak at Serra Street and Arguello Way during mid-July 2006.

“After a thorough review of the excellent police report submitted in this matter, which included extensive follow-up investigation, the Office of the District Attorney will not file criminal charges in the matter of the damage to the Stanford Band Shak,” Boyarsky said in an official statement to the Stanford Daily. “We believe that there is insufficient evidence for us to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt unanimously to a jury. There are adequate systems in place at Stanford University, including the Office of Judicial Affairs and the recently formed Band Reinstatement Committee, which we trust will appropriately handle this matter with an eye toward restitution and accountability.”

Boyarsky was unable to release any additional details concerning the case.

“We’re glad this decision was made, and we think it’s a step towards getting past this unfortunate incident,” said Band Public Relations Coordinator Chris Holt, a co-terminal student in English. “However, the issue is still a matter for the individuals and the University to handle in an appropriate matter. For our part, the Band will continue to work to entertain and benefit the entire Stanford community.”

According to Vice Provost for Student Affairs Greg Boardman, the University’s long-standing policy of non-interference in matters pending before the District Attorney prevents him from commenting on the decision.

“We were appalled by the property destruction caused by Band members,” Boardman said. “Through the Band Reinstatement Committee, Stanford is taking appropriate steps to ensure reimbursement for the damages, respect for University resources and improved communications between Band members and the University administration.”

The Band Reinstatement Committee, which began meeting in October, will continue meeting during winter quarter.

"[The Band Reinstatement Committee] recently formed subcommittees to examine the issues outlined by Vice Provost Greg Boardman, including leadership of the organization, citizenship by its members, and the partnership between the Band and the University," said Associate Dean of Students Chris Griffith, who is serving as the interim director of the Band and co-chair of the Band Reinstatement Committee.

According to Griffith, the Band is scheduled to participate in a number of Big Game activities, including events with the Cal Band in San Francisco as well as events on campus. The Band is also scheduled to travel to Cal for Big Game.