Crime & Justice Radio
Monday Nights at 6PM
IHeart Radio and L.I. News Radio
Episode 99
Steven Brand, a favorite guest and well-known Austin-based criminal defense attorney, was Aida's guest for this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
The two spent the entire hour dissecting the issue of domestic violence and how it changes the lives of the accused, the accusers and their families. Steven cited various studies and other fascinating facts that dispel some common myths about how these charges come to be.
We can assure you that you will learn something if you listen to this episode!
It's a great show! Listen here!
Episode 98
After breaking the news about Rudy Giuliani's latest lawsuit, Bruce and Aida dove into the Daniel Penny case that they have been following in New York, and how it is playing out in the media, and politically, and what might happen, legally.
The second half of the show featured an incredible guest with an incredible story: Stanley Bellamy was walked out of prison in April after serving 37 years for a crime he did not commit.
He was joined by Bahar Ansari, his attorney, Aida's friend and former colleague, and the supervising attorney of the criminal defense practice at the Legal Aid Society of New York City.
It's a great show! Listen here!
Episode 97
In the first half of this week's Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida focused on the E. Jean Carroll vs. former President Donald Trump civil suit -- in particular, the closing arguments and the contours of the case.
For the second half of the show, they discussed the recent death of Jordan Neely in a New York subway car. They talked about the foundational issue of mental health, and the questions as to whether the man who killed Mr. Neely did it in self defense, if will be charged, and if so, how.
It's another meaty show!
Listen HERE!
Episode 96
In the first episode of Crime & Justice Radio of May, well-known trial attorney Steven Brand joined Bruce and Aida to dissect the E. Jean Carroll vs. former President Donald Trump civil sexual assault trial.
Aida called the single-theme episode: "Everything you've ever wanted to know about sexual assault but were afraid to ask."
They talked about statutes of limitations and memory, cross-examination tone and substance, why it might be useful to get "permission" from the jury to be more aggressive in cross examination if needed, among many other fascinating considerations as three seasoned trial attorneys analyzed the evidence presented thus far and how both sides are handling this high-profile trial.
Give it a listen!
Listen HERE!
Episode 95
There are a number of fascinating criminal cases in the news - several of them related to men on death row.
Bruce and Aida focused on a few of the more interesting cases in the latest episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
Some of the cases discussed were:
Richard Glossip: On death row in Oklahoma for 24 years, has had his execution stayed three times already.
Rodney Reed: A prisoner on death row in Texas who will be allowed to pursue DNA testing to prove his innocence thanks to a recent SCOTUS ruling.
Crosley Green: A man who went back into prison after being free on appeal.
If you listen to the end, you'll also get a primer on the definition of Brady Material.
It's a meaty show!
Listen HERE!
Episode 94
Would defending your politics incite you to commit a crime?
Bruce and Aida opened the show reviewing a few of the various criminal cases in the news, with a discussion about how some people engage in criminal conduct because of their politics.
They also talked through the predicament many of former President Trump's attorneys are facing, which is the need to defend Trump's politics as a part of almost any defense.
They touched on the Dominion vs. Fox defamation trial and talked about the definition of actual malice, and an incredible case of a man who might be forced back to jail after being free ... for a crime there is evidence he did not commit.
Listen HERE!
Episode 93
After Kevin Kearon, founder and named partner of the firm and Crime & Justice Radio's guest host, provided a detailed news round-up that covered the spectrum from gun control to transgender rights to Gwenyth Paltrow, he hosted Donna Aldea to talk about her work as head of the firm's appellate and post conviction practice.
Donna's particular experience made for a terrific conversation that ended up delving into what might be expected for the upcoming indictment of former President Trump.
She also talked about the firm's long-time client, Cal Harris, who thanks to excellent lawyering from the Barket Epstein team, will finally have an opportunity to hold his accusers accountable!
Listen to it all HERE!
Episode 92
Our indomitable guest host, Kevin Kearon, hosted our partner, Steve Epstein, at the top of this week's Crime & Justice Radio show.
Kevin and Steve, who is a nationally-known expert on driving under the influence and vehicular crimes, nerded out about the impact of the legalization of marijuana in New York, and its impact on vehicle use, as well as a proposal to lower the BAC in New York to .05 from .08.
Kevin then took the second half of the program to delve into a variety of meaty issues, including the breaking news regarding the Nashville school shooting and rising gun violence and mental health issues generally.
He also talked through the various former President Trump-related investigations that are in the news... and much more!
Listen to the show HERE!
Episode 91
Our partner Kevin Kearon returned as our guest host for the next few episodes while Bruce and Aida focus on their client's defense at trial.
He opened the show reviewing some of the criminal justice news of the week, including the breaking news that Sayfullo Sapiov was sentenced to life in prison, after the Manhattan jury did not reach a unanimous verdict in the penalty phase of the trial.
He touched on the controversial news that the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles commuted the sentences of 44 people convicted of murder, considered the possibility that criminal charges might come out of the Silicon Valley Bank implosion, and more.
For the second half of the show, he and his guest, Steven Komorek, discussed Steve's work in Ukraine, and a host of topics that you'll want to hear more about!
Listen HERE!
Episode 90
Bruce and Aida were back for this week's episode, after a month-long, intense trial that recently ended.
They talked about Nick Tartaglione, their client for almost seven years, the details of this federal case, including their role in helping to persuade the government to take the death penalty off the table for their client, and how the trial ultimately played out.
In addition to digging into many of the details about what it means to be a cooperating witness in the federal system, as well as their theory of the case, Bruce and Aida talked about how they prepared, and what it meant to lose a hard-fought trial.
In the second half of the show, they focused on former President Trump and all that is going on in those cases.
Listen HERE!
Episode 89
Kevin Kearon and Marty Tankleff guest hosted this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio as Bruce and Aida are focused on representing their client in a month-long trial. They opened with a discussion about the criminal news of the week, including touching on a perceived rise in gang violence, and then Kevin interviewed Marty about his and his longtime friend and colleague Marc Howard's impactful Making an Exoneree program.
Their guest was the intriguing Mark Fallon, formerly a special agent in the NCIS and known objector to using torture during interrogation. They discussed "enhanced interrogation techniques" and how coercive methods are "effective in getting confessions, but also effective in getting confessions from innocent people," as well as his thoughts on policing in the current environment.
Kevin asked Mark if choosing a career in law enforcement is still worth it in his view...
Listen HERE to this terrific show to find out Mark's answer!
Episode 88
What is worse: Life in prison? Or death?
This week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio focused a good bit on the death penalty and the difference between life in prison, and death.
Bruce and Aida, who themselves had a client who was facing the death penalty until very recently when President Biden's Department of Justice withdrew their intention to seek the death penalty, talked about a few death penalty cases in the news, including a federal death penalty trial in New York, and another in Oklahoma.
If you want to learn more about these kinds of cases, and get up to speed on the ones making news this week, do not miss this show!
Listen HERE!
Episode 87
This week's episode is terrific if you want to nerd out on very specific aspects of how the criminal justice system works. Bruce and Aida talk at length about cross examination, exoneration and prosecutorial misconduct in the context of what they have experienced first hand... and also how some of this is playing out in the cases you are reading about in the news.
They take the second half of the show to dissect the latest updates in the Alex Murdaugh murder case out of South Carolina. There's a lot there, and more to come!
Give it a listen! Click HERE
Episode 86
Bruce and Aida opened the show discussing journalism and the concept of a presumption of innocence, particularly in light of the fact there is so much documentary evidence now available via cell phone images and video that can convincingly sway the public perception of what happened.
They had Alan Newton as their guest on the second half of the show. Alan and Aida met at the Innocence Project. Alan, like so many, is an exoneree who is spending his life helping to vindicate and exonerate others.
He talked about the importance -- and difficulty -- of finding the evidence that can ultimately exonerate someone who has been wrongfully accused. Sometimes the stories you read make it seem like it is kind of easy to find DNA that clears a person's name.
Listen to the show to find out more about how difficult it is -- and how long it can take.
Listen to it HERE
Episode 85
Have you been following the recent charges of involuntary manslaughter that Alec Baldwin, Rust's producer and leading man, and armorer, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, are facing in connection with Halyna Hutchins’ death?
If so, you're in luck! Bruce and Aida had Brock Benjamin, a talented defense attorney who does some work in New Mexico, on the show this week to talk about it.
Take a listen! Click HERE
Episode 84
On the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day show, Aida and Bruce announced they are now broadcasting live **from their office** to help their "work-radio host" balance.
Bruce and Aida shared their favorite quotes from Dr. King, talked about work, service, and this day, and focused on the fact that Dr. King was an advocate for non-violent means of making change and advocating for the innocent.
Bruce connected Dr. King to Mahatma Gandhi, both of whom were incarcerated for their non-violent protests... and ultimately assassinated.
Barket Epstein's own Danielle Muscatello joined the second half of the show to talk about her latest high-profile client, Christopher Porco, who says he is innocent of killing his father, and her work to vacate that conviction based on new evidence not known or shared at trial.
Take a listen. It's a terrific show! - Listen to it HERE
Episode 83
Bruce and Aida brought us up to date after a very busy criminal justice news period over the holiday break.
They discussed immigration, the Idaho murders, the six-year-old with a gun who shot a teacher, and more.
Then, they interviewed California-based defense attorney, Joseph Tully, on his book, California: State of Collusion, and all of the topics it delves into, from judges, law enforcement, religion, media and sociopaths ... as criminals, or in law enforcement.
Episode 82
The holiday 2023 episode of Crime & Justice Radio started with some cool seasonal music and featured Bruce and Aida talking about some of their favorite topics from the death penalty to wrongful convictions, but in the context of holiday themes and in an informative and uplifting way!
They also shared some recent, truly hopeful and wonderful news. They heard just this week that the Department of Justice will no longer seek the death penalty in a longstanding case against one of their clients -- who they have represented for six years -- practically to the day of this episode.
That client, and Bruce, Aida and the entire Barket Epstein team, now have new hope in the new year for his spring trial.
So on that note, happy holidays to all. Bruce and Aida will be live again
in the new year!
Listen to it HERE
Episode 81
In this week's episode, Bruce and Aida took a night off from interviewing guests and were, themselves, the "expert insiders" they talk about on the show!
They discussed recent developments in New York City and a recent expose in Newsday about Suffolk County that both focus on the challenges surrounding mental health, and its intersection with homelessness and the criminal justice system.
It is a really smart show and well worth the listen!
Episode 80
Ever wonder what Bruce thinks is one of the most important topics we have ever discussed?
On this week's episode, he and Aida spoke with Jenin Younes, one of the lawyers who has brought a lawsuit against various members of the federal government regarding censoring free speech by intimidating social media companies.
Jenin is Litigation Counsel for the New Civil Liberties Alliance. She spent the first part of her career as an appellate public defender, providing representation to indigent clients convicted of criminal offenses in New York City.
It's a terrific show!
Episode 79
In the Thanksgiving Week episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida first talked about the $1.5M payout from Suffolk County to their client, John Oliva. The team, including Bruce, Donna Aldea, John LoTurco, Alexander Klein, and others, worked over several years to clear Mr. Oliva of false charges and to negotiate this substantial award for him without going through a civil trial.
They then interviewed two terrific guests.
First, they spoke with Frederick Brewington, a nationally-known civil rights attorney with two cases currently vs. Nassau County Police Department, addressing discriminatory traffic stops and hiring practices.
Their next guest was Jessica Jackson, a civil rights attorney at the REFORM Alliance, who was once Kim Kardashian's law tutor and played a significant role in the development of the First Step Act with the Trump Administration that has since freed 7,000 people.
She joined the show to talk about the excessive use of incarceration to address non criminal conduct.
It is another thoughtful, meaty show!
Nerd out with us by listening HERE!
Episode 78
On Election Day eve, Bruce and Aida asked: "is crime on the rise across the U.S.?"
Their guest, Marc A. Levin, got to that question in the second half of the program.
But first, Bruce and Aida's partner, John LoTurco, joined the show to talk about his high-profile case that wrapped up last week, in which he was asked to defend a client that most local defense attorneys rejected because of the intensity of the public's negative perception of the client.
As John said, and Bruce and Aida say frequently, every person accused of a crime is guaranteed a zealous defense. Which he provided this client.
Their second guest was Marc Levin, Chief Policy Counsel for the Council on Criminal Justice, a think tank that analyzes data, including crime rates, on criminal justice issues.
With Marc, they talked about crime across the country and how these issues intersect with the election, including issues specific to New York including bail reform... and much more.
It's another terrific, meaty show!
Episode 77
On the Halloween episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida focused on an oft recurring theme of the show: the media and criminal justice. Specifically, taking a closer look at what the media -- and social media -- portrays about alleged perpetrators of crimes and how that coverage is typically slanted. And how that coverage -- however inaccurate it might be -- drives public perception.
Their guests, Anne Bremner and Doug Bremner, talked about their new book: "Justice in the Age of Judgment" which delves into that very issue related to some of the most high-profile cases of our time.
It was a terrific show on a fascinating topic!
Episode 76
On this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida hosted Professor Daniel Medwed to talk about his new book, “Barred: Why the Innocent Can’t Get Out of Prison."
They opened the show with their usual banter on the news of the week, this time discussing the New York Governor's race, former President Trump and the difference in how jurys are picked for federal vs. state trials.
Don't miss it!
Episode 75
Bruce and Aida hosted another compelling guest for this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
Coss Marte, after serving several years in prison for dealing drugs, founded
CONBODY, a successful fitness brand, and has become a prominent advocate
for the incarcerated, speaking out in multiple TedX talks and co-founding
Second Chance Studios, a nonprofit that trains former inmate “fellows”
in digital media.
His latest venture is a legal cannabis dispensary called CONBUD in his
native New York.
Episode 74
What is the relationship between Kim Kardashian, crypto currency and the Securities and Exchange Commission?
And what exactly is happening with the Oath Keepers / January 6 federal trial that began this week?
Answers to those questions -- as well as a vibrant discussion about the cases SCOTUS is taking on this term, Wrongful Conviction Month, and much more -- are yours for the listening and learning on this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio!
Episode 73
Fascinated by Keith Raniere, the founder and leader of NXIVM, the alleged sex and self-help cult?
Wondering what the latest news is on former POTUS Donald Trump and the
New York Attorney General's lawsuit announced last week?
Do we have the show for you!
Bruce and Aida opened the latest episode of Crime & Justice Radio talking
about the latest Trump-related lawsuit, Rudy Giuliani and Alec Baldwin,
and then hosted two guests to talk about other, less-reported aspects of NXIVM.
Marc Elliot discussed how his involvement with NXIVM helped cure Tourette
syndrome, and Richard Kiper, Ph.D., a retired FBI Special Agent, talked
about Raniere’s recent allegation that the FBI planted evidence
in his trial.
Episode 72
What do you do if you are pulled over after smoking or ingesting marijuana?
And what exactly is a "taint team" and how does it relate to the latest news regarding former President Donald Trump?
Bruce's guests, nationally-known DUI attorney Steven Epstein, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District turned criminal defense attorney, Danya Perry. dug into each of these respective questions and covered a *lot* of additional ground.
It's another meaty, terrific show!
Episode 71
The Brooklyn District Attorney, Eric Gonzalez, was Bruce and Aida's guest to start off this week's jam-packed show show.
DA Gonzales, a career prosecutor. last week began to dismiss up to 400 cases because each involved police officers who had committed on-the-job misconduct, though not necessarily related to the case in question, but which in many cases was the sole or primary witness in the case.
They also talked at length about what it means to be a reform prosecutor, the issues surrounding bail reform, and much more.
Frequent guest, Vanessa Potkin of the Innocence Project, and her client Herman Williams, who was exonerated *last week*, joined Bruce and Aida for much of the rest of the show.
They discussed Mr. Williams' compelling story and what it feels like to walk out of prison, exonerated, after 29 years!
Mr. Williams said, "it was like a dream."
A meaty and moving show. Give it a listen!
Episode 70
Are you fascinated by the mob? If so, don't miss this episode of Crime
& Justice Radio!
Bruce and Aida hosted former prosecutor and Retired Judge John Gleeson
to talk about his engrossing book, “The Gotti Wars: Taking Down
America’s Most Notorious Mobster”.
They discussed how John Gotti, Jr. was a different kind of mob boss...
and that his charisma was on full display, even in the courtroom.
Our hosts started the show, as always, with engaging repartee, including
a conversation about former President Trump's current entanglement with
the FBI and Justice Department, what you should know on September 1 in
New York State if you own a gun -- with Andrew Chernoff of Coliseum Guns
-- and... much, much more.
Episode 69
This week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio featured Bruce and Aida's partner, well-known trial attorney John LoTurco, who is representing ex-NYPD officer Michael Valva in a difficult case and what will be a high-profile murder trial beginning September 6 on Long Island.
John shared his read of the facts, as well as the intensity of the media attention on this horrible story and how it might affect jury selection.
They discussed what "depraved indifference" murder means, and what John hopes to achieve for this client in a case that most attorneys were not willing to take.
As always, our hosts opened the show digging into recent criminal justice news, including the death penalty trial of Nikolas Cruz, the so-called Parkland shooter, and his public defender's defense strategy, as well as the incredibly favorable death penalty climate in Oklahoma, the Julius Jones case as it stands now, and ... much more!
Episode 68
Trying to make sense of the recent FBI search of former President Donald Trump's home, or recent news about who will be paying former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's legal fees?
Kevin Kearon, defense attorney extraordinaire, joined Bruce at the top of the show to shed light on these issues and others.
Bruce then hosted Michael Henry, who is running for New York State Attorney General. They talked about the current AG,Leticia James, Covid, bail reform, the death penalty, and much more!
Episode 67
Have you ever wondered how or why an innocent person would confess to a crime they did not commit?
If so, this episode is a must-listen!
Saul Kassin, a world renowned expert on false confessions, was Bruce and Aida's guest this week. They talked about what the research -- and Kassin's years of experience focused on this issue -- tell us about how an innocent person might say they committed a crime when they did not do it.
And... as always, our hosts started the show with a quick overview of some of the week's criminal justice news, including talking about the Brittney Griner case and how her sentence relates to sentences right here in the U.S. (Spoiler alert: sentences for similar crimes are just as extreme - or more so - in some states in the U.S.)
Episode 66
Donna Aldea, widely regarded as one of the best appellate attorneys in the country — who also happens to be Bruce and Aida's partner — was the featured guest on this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
Donna talked about what it means to be a lifelong appellate attorney — having worked for the prosecution in the Queen's District Attorney's office, and, now, for the defense. She also talked about one of her particularly high-profile case as well as her most rewarding case in the private sector.
Bruce and Aida covered a lot of ground at the top of the show, as always, too!
It's a terrific episode!
Episode 65
Why does a lawyer choose to go into a criminal defense practice?
Bruce and Aida talked about the importance of criminal defense attorneys, why the role is vital to a working justice system, and why they love it. They discussed this in the context of the recent passing of a well-known criminal defense attorney, Gerald (Jerry) Shargel, who was renowned for his representation of mob families from Gotti to Gravano to Gambino ... and his vigorous representation of all of his clients.
And... Aida gave some insight on obituaries in The New York Times.
PS: Did you know you can listen to Crime & Justice Radio on iHeart Radio?
Episode 64
Interested in exonerees or junk science? Don't miss this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
Kristine Bunch, now working with How to Justice, an organization that helps the currently and recently incarcerated, was Bruce and Aida's guest. She told her horrific story of losing her young child in a fire and then being convicted of killing that child -- and the years she spent clearing her name from prison. She was convicted due to junk science that incorrectly determined the house fire was arson.
Kristine, like many exonerees, has chosen to give back to society after being released ... despite having so much taken away from them.
Our hosts also talked about their client, Rodolfo Taylor, who spent 27 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, and how he -- and his family -- were affected, about the Central Park 6 (yes 6)... and much, much more,
Episode 63
On this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida discussed the sudden resignation of the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals and of the State of New York, Janet DiFiore, as well as her tenure, including how the New York State Court System handled the Covid-19 pandemic under her direction.
Bruce and Aida also covered a few new cases in the news, including the recent New York story about a bodega worker being charged for murder in what might be a defense claim. They then dug in more deeply on the nuances of concealed carry and other gun laws.
As usual, there is plenty of "news you can use" in this episode if you like talking about Crime & Justice issues around the dinner table, or the water cooler!
Episode 62
Pro tip: If you follow SCOTUS, you should regularly be listening to Crime & Justice Radio!
Bruce and Aida dove right in to cover much of the high-profile legal news of the week, including both SCOTUS decisions that came down within a few days of each other: one on concealed carry laws and the Dobbs decision that effectively overturned Roe v. Wade.
They had been talking about both of these cases over the last few months, so this show continues a terrific and meaty legal discussion about both.. and more!
Episode 61
On the Juneteenth episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Aida and Bruce hosted their partner Seymour James, who was the Attorney-in-Chief of the Legal Aid Society, and former president of the New York State Bar Association.
Mr. James talked about Juneteenth, what it is, why we celebrate it, and reinforced the importance of continuing to consider the disparities that have existed throughout our history and continue, in many ways, to this day.
Bruce and Aida also nerded out on the felony murder rule, the Lisa Lambert case, with her lawyer, David Brown, and much, much more.
Episode 60
This week, Bruce and Aida talked more about the outcome of the Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard trial and whether gender played a role, a new fraternity hazing story, individual responsibility vs. social pressure and bullying, and a host of other criminal justice cases that are ongoing this week.
They also talked about the January 6 committee and what it means, and did a deep dive into the topic of guns and gun laws -- and proposed solutions.
It's another great show!
Episode 59
Kevin Kearon, a founding partner, guest-hosted this week's episode. This was his third time in the hosting seat for Crime & Justice Radio.
He discussed the Buffalo mass shooting, and the many cases like this that have happened over the last few decades, in the context of mental health, an ongoing uptick in violent crime and appropriate punishment for mass murderers.
Kevin then interviewed forensic psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Duffy. They talked about the significant stress and anxiety many have suffered, that started, in many cases, during the pandemic.
She noted that we are not going to know the full effects of the pandemic lockdown for 8-10 years.
It's a terrific show.
Episode 58
This week, Bruce went solo and covered as much recent criminal news as possible in an hour-long show, including diving into some detail on gun laws.
He started with a quick overview of the Depp vs Heard case, talked about an upcoming Supreme Court decision on guns and the newest New York gun laws signed just today — all in light of the continuing mass shootings, and more.
His guest was the always interesting Patrick Ryder, Commissioner of the Nassau County Police Department. They talked about school safety and how NCPD has prepared for a mass shooter as well as how to advise your children on what to do if they are ever in this horrible situation.
It is another important show.
Episode 57
On the Memorial Day episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida waxed nostalgic about their year on the air, discussing their incredible guests, ranging from police commissioners to defense attorneys to journalists to exonerees to an executioner. And much more.
They then interviewed some very accomplished young people, possibly the next generation of wrongful conviction activists: a few members of Georgetown University's "Making an Exoneree" class, including previous guest Omar Alshogre, and Olive Brogan and Lauren Scarff.
The class is taught by Marty Tankleff and Marc Howard.
Bruce and Aida asked the undergraduate college students about the case they researched and worked on in class: the Timothy Young case in California. They talked about the evidence against him, and why they believe he will be exonerated.
And... Bruce and Aida also played segments of the documentary the students made on Tim's behalf.
It's a really inspiring show!
Episode 56
Kevin Kearon, a founding partner, guest-hosted this week's episode. This was his third time in the hosting seat for Crime & Justice Radio.
He discussed the Buffalo mass shooting, and the many cases like this that have happened over the last few decades, in the context of mental health, an ongoing uptick in violent crime and appropriate punishment for mass murderers.
Kevin then interviewed forensic psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Duffy. They talked about the significant stress and anxiety many have suffered, that started, in many cases, during the pandemic.
She noted that we are not going to know the full effects of the pandemic lockdown for 8-10 years.
It's a terrific show.
Episode 55
On the heels of the latest mass shooting in the U.S., this time in Buffalo, New York, Bruce and Aida dug into the the specifics of gun laws, mental health issues, the possibility of bringing back the death penalty in New York as well as the undeniable racist intent of this 18-year-old man and whether he might be charged with a federal hate crime and potentially face the federal death penalty.
Buckle up and take a listen, HERE.
Episode 54
Gus Garcia-Roberts, a reporter for the Washington Post (and formerly Newsday) was Bruce and Aida's guest on this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
Gus talked about his new book which tells the long and sordid tale of police corruption in Suffolk County under "Jimmy the King."
The firm was involved in various aspects of these many cases, so the give and take is great!
Don't miss it!
Episode 53
Omar Alshogre was detained at age 15, and again at 17 for participating
in anti-government protests in Syria. He served three years in a Syrian
prison, where he was starved, tortured and beaten.
While he was in prison, his father, brother and numerous family members
were murdered in "ethnic cleansing" by the Bashar al-Assad regime.
He is now a student at Georgetown University, and an outspoken critic of
the international community’s inaction to stop the ongoing human
rights violations in Syria.
Omar was Bruce and Aida's guest for this week's episode. His story is truly
compelling.
Episode 52
On this week's Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida talked about the latest criminal justice news, including recent shootings in the New York City subway, and then hosted Vanessa Potkin, the Director of Special Litigation at The Innocence Project, who helped pioneer the model of post-conviction DNA litigation and is serving as co-counsel in the Melissa Lucio death row case in Texas.
They discussed Ms. Lucio's case and the many reasons why the case presented to the jury that convicted her was not at all airtight, and how, more broadly, it is not unusual to admit to something you did not do if under duress and being manipulated, and the hopes of getting a stay of execution for Ms. Lucio in the next week.
It is a stunning story and well worth a listen.
Episode 51
Happy First Birthday Crime & Justice Radio!
This episode marks a full year with fascinating topics, amazing guests
and in-depth analysis of the criminal justice issues in the news -- with
the experts!
After reviewing some of their best "gets" over the past year
(e.g., Bill Cosby's lawyer, Harvey Weinstein's lawyer, Marty Tankleff,
Amanda Knox, various elected officials and candidates running for New
York State Governor, and many more) Bruce and Aida hosted Laura Nirider
to talk about her representation of Brendan Dassey -- remember Making
A Murderer? -- and others we believe were wrongfully convicted.
Also... Bruce and Aida reveal their "dream guests" for the next
year of the show!
Episode 50
Marty Tankleff, exoneree, now lawyer and Georgetown Law professor joined Aida as guest host on this week's show.
The discussed the latest criminal justice news, as well as Marty's incredible journey from a falsely accused 17-year-old to exoneree to law school to co-teaching the popular "Making an Exoneree" class with his childhood friend Marc Howard at Georgetown Law.
They also hosted one of Marty's class's clients.
It is a great show!
Episode 49
Are you a bit of a criminal justice news aficionado and interested in learning more about "junk science?"
In this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Chris Fabricant of the Innocence Project came on the show to discuss his new book, "Junk Science and the American Criminal Justice System." It was the first stop on his book tour, and was a really meaty conversation!
Take a listen, learn a lot (and buy his book!)
Episode 48
Will Putin be charged with war crimes?
Dan Arshack, an international law expert, joined Bruce and Aida for this week's show to talk about whether or not Vladimir Putin could be charged and tried for war crimes in an international tribunal. They also discussed the latest developments in Guantanamo Bay, the incredible qualifications of SCOTUS nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, and... World Down Syndrome Day.
Episode 47
Should Ghislaine Maxwell get another trial?
Even if you are appalled by what she allegedly did, the law might say "yes."
On this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida covered a range of criminal justice topics, from lawsuits related to vaccinations, to the Jessie Smollett sentence to the juror issue in the Ghislaine Maxwell case.
They also discussed how law enforcement might use your DNA, if they have it.
Episode 46
On this week's episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida nerded out on the intricacies of bail reform.
They followed it with a deep dive on jury selection and what prosecutors and defense attorneys look for in light of the Ghilsane Maxwell juror who is being questioned for not answering questions about his past accurately.
A lot of great information if you love learning about criminal justice!
Episode 45
Interested in criminal justice issues and how they relate to governance
in New York State?
New York State gubernatorial hopeful, Representative Tom Suozzi, was Bruce
and Aida's guest this week.
They had a terrific conversation about what Rep. Suozzi thinks about criminal
justice issues in New York, why he is running, and what differentiates
him from the rest of the crowded field.
Episode 44
Wondering about the issue of athletic steroid use in the context of the 2022 Winter Olympics?
Bruce and Aida had Rick Collins as their guest for their Presidents' Day episode to discuss his legal practice, which sits at the nexus of health and fitness and the law.
Bruce and Aida also talked about the death penalty highlighting another case in Texas that has parallels with the recent, tragic death of Bob Saget.
It's a great show!
Episode 43
On this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida talked through the latest criminal justice issues in the news, and then hosted Frederick Brewington, well-known civil rights and criminal defense attorney, based on Long Island, for his thoughts on the criminal justice system and what isn't working.
Episode 42
Curious about what candidates for New York Governor think about the current state of criminal justice?
This week, Bruce and Aida hosted Rob Astorino, candidate for New York Governor. They discussed bail reform, the death penalty, no-knock warrants, and much, much more.
Episode 41
Jennifer Harrison of Victims' Rights NY joined Bruce Barket to host this week's show. They talked about Jennifer's experience, and why she chose this path supporting victims' rights, as well as the importance of prosecutors and defenders empathizing with victims as cases are brought to court.
Lou Mazzola of Suffolk County Legal Aid Society joined for the second half of the show to talk about the recent exoneration of Rodolfo Taylor, and more!
Episode 40
On the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. day episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida paid tribute to Dr. King's "timeless" writing and speeches, which are still so relevant today.
Their guest was the great Barry Pollack, who talked about his representation of Julian Assange. They discussed the case generally, the charges, and how Pollack is defending Assange in this fascinating case.
It was a terrific show!
Episode 39
Bruce and Aida opened the show with an update on the latest criminal justice news, which included a discussion about the new Manhattan District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, who is raising eyebrows in the criminal justice community by announcing the crimes he is no longer going to prosecute.
They then hosted two great guests:
Katie Nitti, a prison reform advocate who talked about teaching inside Rikers and connecting with her students, and Jon Fredericks, a Sergeant in the NYPD - Bronx, homicide and on the hostage negotiation squad. He discussed crime rates and what he thinks about stop and frisk, broken windows policing, and a variety of crime-fighting tactics that have been used over the past few decades.
Episode 38
On the first episode of Crime & Justice Radio of 2022, Marty Tankleff joined Bruce and Aida and Steven Braga was their guest.
They discussed the story of Keith Washington, a former police officer convicted of murder and sentenced to 45 years, who is free for now, thanks to the hard work of students in the Making an Exoneree class at Georgetown Law, a class taught by Marty Tankleff.
And, as always, our hosts opened the show with an update on the latest criminal justice news, including updates on the cases of Ghislane Maxwell, Elizabeth Holmes, and Kimberly Potter.
Episode 37
On the year-end episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce gave a short sermon on the Twelve Days of Christmas, he and Aida discussed New Year's resolutions, more recent exonerations and releases, and more.
Their guest was Tricia Rojo Bushnell, Executive Director of the Midwest Innocence Project, and president of the Innocence Network. She talked about some of her recent cases, what led her to this line of work, and various other criminal justice issues.
Another fascinating show!
Listen Here
Episode 36
It was Ladies Night on Crime & Justice Radio!
Bruce and Aida gave updates on the three current, high-profile trials with female defendants: Ghislane Maxwell, Kimberly Potter, and Elizabeth Holmes. And they interviewed Jennifer Rogers of the National Association of Prison Reform, and a former exoneree and prison reform, advocate.
And, if that wasn't enough, they also hosted Anthony Broadwater attorneys J. David Hammond and Melissa Swartz whose client was falsely accused of rape in another high-profile case.
Episode 35
Are you paying attention to the Ghislane Maxwell Trial, or wish you had been?
On this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, guest Stephen Brand dissected
"sex trials" and gave his expert take on what is happening in this one.
And, Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring also delved into the news of the
week, including a spotlight on wrongful convictions stemming from the
Queen's DA office featuring the Samuel Brownridge exoneration that includes
the prominent role of our staff member, Don Taylor, the SCOTUS ruling
on vaccine mandates for health care workers, the Kimberly Potter trial,
and so much more.
Episode 34
Bruce and Aida dove into the
#GhislaneMaxwell trial, the
# Alex Baldwin interview and the
Alice Sebold related rape exoneration cases, as well as charging the parents of the
Michigan school shooting suspect.
Their guest was exoneree Alan Newton, who served 21 years after being wrongfully
convicted of rape after a mistaken ID. He told his compelling story which
underscores the damage that is done when "mistakes" are made
in the criminal justice system.
Don't miss it!
Episode 33
Did you know Aida once worked at Brueggers Bagels?
On this issue of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida talked through the criminal news of the week, including explaining the verdicts in the Ahmaud Arbery trial and a review of the upcoming trial of Ghislane Maxwell. Their guest was a former homicide prosecutor turned baker, Bob Biancavilla of Duck Island Bread.
Episode 32
What a week in criminal justice news! Bruce and Aida were delighted to host two very timely guests: Vanessa Potkin, the Director of Post-Conviction Litigation for the Innocence Project, as well as co-creator and co-executive producer of The Last Defense, and, Nassau County District Attorney-elect, Anne Donnelly.
DA-elect Donnelly talked about what comes next when she assumes this hugely important role next year, and Vanessa talked about the commutation of Julius Jones, the role of The Last Defense in bringing that case into the mainstream, and the recent exonerations of the Malcolm X shooters, which The Innocence Project was also involved with. She and Aida also commiserated about how they chose Julius's case for the show.
It is a jam-packed episode. Please give it a listen!
Episode 31
Our founding partner Kevin Kearon guest-hosted this episode of Crime & Justice Radio. He provided a newsy update on a very long list of list of criminal justice cases, from Julius Jones, to the latest in the case against former New York State Governor Cuomo to the Kyle Rittenhouse and Ahmaud Arbery trials, and much more.
For the second half of the show, Kevin interviewed Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, the Commissioner's second appearance on the show.
Episode 30
After Bruce and Aida ran through the ample criminal justice news of the week, Ray Tierney, the newly elected Suffolk County District Attorney, joined our hosts to talk about his recent win and initial plans for when he takes office.
Not only was Mr. Tierney the very first guest on Crime & Justice Radio, but he and the new Nassau County DA, Anne Donnelly, were both guests on the show during the fall election cycle.
Episode 29
Madeline Davis-Jones, mother of Julius Jones, was Bruce and Aida's guest fresh off of the Pardon and Parole Board hearing of that morning that recommended her son's sentence be commuted.
She is a truly inspiring woman. Please give this episode a listen!
Episode 28
Bruce and Aida opened the show talking about the Brian Laundrie case and unfortunate latest news in that case: Mr. Laundrie's body has been found.
They then discussed the tragedy on the RUST set.
Jenin Younes, Litigation Counsel for the New Civil Liberties Alliance, was Bruce and Aida's first guest. Jenin has been active in fighting against lockdowns and related policies related to Covid-19 and has published numerous essays on the subject with the American Institute for Economic Research.
Andrew Chernoff of Coliseum Gun Traders joined them as their guest. He provided some interesting insight about what might have gone wrong on the film set in the mishandling of the revolver and speculated as to why there were live rounds on a film set.
It's eye-opening. Give it a listen!
Episode 27
This week we had a guest who has the power to change some of the issues we talk about on each show.
Don't miss this episode! U.S. Congressman and New York State gubernatorial candidate Rep. Lee Zeldin joins Bruce and Aida to discuss vaccine mandates, criminal justice reform, and why he is running for governor.
Former Nassau County Police Commissioner Bill Flanagan also joined the show to give his unique insight into the criminal justice system and what needs to change.
Episode 26
After the weekly overview of the latest criminal justice news, Lonnie Soury is Bruce and Aida's guest. They discuss a number of his high-profile cases, and the role of the media in the trying of criminal cases.
Episode 25
Bruce and Aida were delighted to have their law partner and former judge, Hon. David Ayres, as their guest for today's show.
They asked Judge Ayres what it is like to sit on the bench between two parties bitterly fighting over a case and keeping composure and neutrality -- from criminal to family court cases.
Listen below to get a behind-the-scenes look at the judiciary in New York State!
Episode 24
When do defense attorneys and corrections officers agree? When they are discussing the state of our jail and prison system.
On this week's episode, Bruce and Aida take on the issue of abhorrent jail and prison conditions in light of more deaths at Rikers Island.
Their guests are Tina Luongo of the Legal Aid Society and Tyrone Covington, the Correction Union President at the notorious Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC).
Please give it a listen!
Episode 23
This week, Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring provide an update on the latest developments in the Julius Jones case, and speak with Monsignor James P. Lisante and Lynn Paltrow, founder of National Advocates for Pregnant Women (NAPW) about the new Texas law. It's a very newsy and informative show.
Episode 22
On the Labor Day episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida played part of a Kanye song, gave the latest updates on the Julius Jones case, and interviewed Steve Zeidman, a well-known criminal defense attorney and CUNY law professor who represented David Gilbert (1981 Brink's Robbery Participant) and five others pardoned by former New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo immediately prior to his resignation.
Among many other things, they discussed how long is long enough to keep a person in prison as punishment for crimes committed. Check it out!
Episode 21
In this packed episode, Bruce and Aida host Jimmy Lawson, an old friend of Julius Jones, to talk about the latest news in that high-profile case that Aida played a huge role in bringing into the public eye as Executive Producer of The Last Defense.
Later in the show, Judge Kamins was the guest, talking about representing former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Harvey Weinstein.
It's another fascinating show!
Episode 20
What does South Park have to do with wearing masks in the courtroom?
In this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, hosts Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring talked about the ongoing discussions around mask mandates, the Julius Jones death row case out of Oklahoma that Aida had a significant role in bringing to the public's attention as a result of executive producing The Last Defense for ABC, and spoke with the amazing Fred Klein.
They also took questions from listeners!
Episode 19
Bruce and Aida discussed the fallout from New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's resignation, the latest news on the Suffolk District Attorney Spota case including his recent sentencing, talked about the rise of vaccine mandates and what that means, and also interviewed Anne Donnelly, who is running for Nassau County District Attorney, and Marc Howard, a professor at Georgetown University who is fighting -- with his students -- to overturn wrongful convictions.
It was a terrific show!
Episode 18
On this episode, Bruce and Aida discussed vaccine mandates, the Robert Durst case, and discussed the potential criminal liability for New York Governor Andrew Cuomo with Kevin Kearon, and how to weigh the allegations taken to the Albany County District Attorney by one of his accusers.
They discussed the difference in misdemeanor and felony charges.
Episode 17
On this episode, Bruce and Aida talked about the latest rumblings regarding mandating vaccines and the Delta virus, their "favorite" clients and cases, and much more!
Episode 16
Ever wonder why people choose to go into criminal defense?
Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring talked about why they got into this practice area on this week's episode.
They also interviewed another passionate criminal defender, Joseph McBride, about his career, and his current representation of one of the more infamous alleged January 6th Capitol trespassers.
It was a great show!
Episode 15
Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring interview Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder in this episode of Crime & Justice Radio on LI News Radio. They talk about falling crime rates and Ryder's policing philosophy on keeping crime down.
Episode 14
In this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, Bruce and Aida host famed defense attorney Nancy Hollander. Nancy was portrayed by Jodie Foster in The Mauritanian, which was the story of her defense of one of the men accused of facilitating the World Trade Center attacks, and her efforts to get him out of Guantanamo Bay.
Episode 13
Wondering what Bill Cosby's attorney had to say after his client's early release from prison?
Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring spoke with Brian Perry, Bill Cosby's lawyer, about the incredible news of last week, on this episode of Crime & Justice Radio.
They also hosted Mario Chavez, who called in from a New Mexico prison to tell his amazing story. He was convicted of murder, has been imprisoned for 17 years, and claims he is innocent.
Do not miss this show!
Episode 12
On this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, partner Kevin Kearon guest hosts and interviews Suffolk County Acting Supreme Court Justice, Fernando Camacho, on the The Role of Judges in Turning Troubled Young Lives Around and Ending the Revolving Door in the Criminal Justice System.
It's a terrific episode!
Episode 11
If you like to listen to podcasts about unsolved murders, you are going to love this episode!
Thomas Hargrove, founder of the Murder Accountability Project, talks with Bruce and Aida about the abundance of unsolved murders around the country, where they are, and why these crimes remain unsolved.
Episode 10
Famed international exoneree, best selling author and podcast host, Amanda
Knox, was Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring's guest on this episode of
Crime & Justice Radio.
She talked about the experience of being forced into a false confession while living and working in Italy, wrongful convictions, how these horrible experiences affect extended families, her point of view as a "translator" for issues of criminal justice, and so much more.
Episode 9
On this episode of Crime & Justice Radio, hosts Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring dig into the latest criminal justice news from around the country, and then have a fascinating conversation with civil rights attorney extraordinaire, Ron Kuby.
Episode 8
Bruce and Aida's special Memorial Day episode included: honoring our veterans, talking about American detainees at Gitmo and an interview with Hon. Terrence Murphy, ret. Lt. Col., and Veteran’s Court Judge.
Episode 7
Veteran 48 Hours correspondent Erin Moriarty joined Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring to talk about responsibility as a journalist, media exclusion from Quintin Jones’ execution, and her podcast, "My Life of Crime". Steve Epstein also joined as a guest to talk about the importance of not drinking and driving over this upcoming holiday weekend and tips on traffic stops.
Episode 6
Sarah Edmonson and Nippy Ames brought down one of the most notorious sex trafficking cults, featured on HBO's The Vow: NXIVM. And they were Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring's guests, for what was truly an amazing episode of Crime & Justice Radio. Sarah and Nippy talked about how they got caught up in a cult, why they felt they couldn't leave, and how, finally, they were able to break away.
Bruce and Aida also reviewed several high-profile cases, including having John LoTurco on the show to talk about the Michael Valva murder trial.
Take a listen!
Episode 5
Don't miss this compelling episode! Bruce and Aida discussed the latest national criminal justice news and then hosted Jennifer Thompson, New York Times bestselling author, crime victim, survivor, healer, and founder of HealingJusticeProject.org, who discussed the many forgotten victims of wrongful convictions, and finding a healing path forward.
Episode 4
Host Aida Leisenring, with guest host Marty Tankleff, exoneree now attorney, and guest Steven Brand, a criminal defense attorney, talked about what it means to be wrongly convicted or falsely accused. It is important to remember that the falsely accused are victims, too.
Episode 3
In this compelling episode, hosts Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring interviewed Ron McAndrew, a former death row warden who carried out executions. He talked about how the work changed him, as well as his changed views on the death penalty.
Episode 2
Bruce and Aida interviewed Risco Lewis, Suffolk Deputy Police Commissioner, African American lawyer and former Nassau County Prosecutor about her experiences as a part of the criminal justice system. They also discussed the multiple high profile criminal issues leading the news, from the Derek Chauvin trial's closing arguments to excessive force and implicit bias.
Episode 1
Listen to Bruce Barket and Aida Leisenring's radio debut on "Crime & Justice Radio" on LI News Radio www.linewsradio.com, iHeartRadio and 103.9 FM. Their first guest was Suffolk DA candidate Ray Tierney.
