#2287 - Josh Dubin & J.D. Tomlinson
Josh Dubin is the Executive Director of the Perlmutter Center for Legal Justice, a criminal justice reform advocate, and civil rights attorney. Tomlinson is a lawyer and was previously Lorain County Prosecutor in Ohio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Episodes with Josh Dubin
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Key Takeaways
The reliance on informants can lead to wrongful convictions.
This highlights the need for scrutiny in using informant testimony in criminal cases.
The importance of evidence in securing justice.
Lack of solid evidence raises questions about the legitimacy of convictions.
The importance of credible testimony in wrongful conviction cases.
Unreliable informants can lead to severe miscarriages of justice.
Political dynamics can hinder justice for wrongfully accused individuals.
Personal interests and political motivations often complicate legal processes.
Political accusations can severely impact personal lives and careers.
Understanding the personal toll of political conflicts is crucial for voters.
Episode Timestamps
Injustice and Wrongful Convictions Discussed in Ohio Case
- Four men were wrongfully convicted for a murder they didn't commit.
- New evidence emerged to challenge the integrity of the original investigation.
- A paid informant's testimony led to the wrongful accusations against the men.
The Complex Case of William Avery Jr. and Al Cleveland's Wrongful Conviction
- William Avery Jr. confessed to lying about Al Cleveland's involvement in a murder.
- Avery's testimony led to the re-examination of Cleveland's long prison sentence.
- Political and personal tensions complicate the pursuit of justice in the case.
Political Manipulation and Legal Battles in Small Towns
- The speaker discusses false accusations and legal issues during a contentious election period.
- Significant relationships deteriorated due to political maneuvering and legal challenges.
- The impact of wrongful accusations on personal and political lives is highlighted.
Exploring the Flaws of the Grand Jury System
- The grand jury system is criticized for its one-sided nature and low indictment rates.
- Prosecutorial immunity and lack of accountability lead to wrongful convictions.
- Reforming the justice system requires addressing biases and promoting fairness.
Exploring Wrongful Convictions and Prosecutorial Accountability
- The podcast discusses a wrongful conviction case involving Nancy Smith and Joseph Allen.
- Public pressure influenced the investigation despite lack of solid evidence.
- A significant apology was made by a prosecutor for the wrongful convictions.
Debate Over Prosecutorial Changes and Delays in Criminal Cases
- Discussion centers around the implications of a new prosecutor on ongoing cases.
- Concerns raised about delays in justice due to administrative transitions.
- Judicial opinions questioned regarding the handling of pending criminal matters.
Exploring Justice in the Nancy Smith Case
- Tony Sillo discusses the complexities of the Nancy Smith case.
- The relationship between prosecutors and mentors complicates justice efforts.
- Concerns arise regarding the ability to prove innocence in this case.
Examining Wrongful Convictions and Societal Inequities
- Discussion on the complexities of wrongful convictions and systemic issues.
- Emphasis on the societal factors influencing crime and justice.
- The need for understanding and empathy towards marginalized communities.
Exploring the Complexities of Crime and Justice in Society
- Determinism plays a significant role in understanding criminal behavior and social circumstances.
- Historical injustices like Jim Crow laws have lasting impacts on communities today.
- The O.J. Simpson trial highlights flaws in the justice system and societal perceptions.
Politics, Justice, and the Struggles of Exonerees Discussed
- Discussion centers on the challenges faced by exonerees in seeking justice.
- Political experiences shared highlight grassroots engagement and personal connections.
- The importance of transparency in legal processes is emphasized throughout the conversation.
Insights on Justice Reform and Personal Experiences in Law
- Discussion highlights the need for compassion in criminal justice reform efforts.
- Personal anecdotes illustrate the challenges faced by defense attorneys in court.
- Emphasis on humility and understanding in the legal profession is critical.
Exploring the Complexities of Law Enforcement and Justice
- Prosecutors often face challenges when pursuing cases involving police actions.
- Public perception of police is heavily influenced by negative media coverage.
- Many police officers perform their duties with the intent of serving and protecting.
People Mentioned
Josh Dupin
Podcast Host, Legal Expert
J.D. Tomlinson
Advocate for justice, Lawyer, Former Prosecuting Attorney
William Avery Jr.
Informant, Key witness in the wrongful conviction case, Defendant
Al Cleveland
Wrongfully convicted individual, Attorney
J.D.
Political figure, Accused individual
Joe
Politician, Community Advocate, Podcast Host, County prosecutor
Mark Gotze
Lawyer, Advocate for justice
Joseph Smith
Defendant in wrongful conviction case
Nancy Smith
Defendant in wrongful conviction case
Tony Sillo
Attorney, Public Servant
Tony
Podcast Host
O.J. Simpson
Defendant in a high-profile trial
Isabel Wilkerson
Author and Journalist
Amber
Family member of exoneree
John Edwards
Defendant
Jim
Podcast host
Places Mentioned
Cleveland, Ohio
City
Books Mentioned
Caste
Isabel Wilkerson
Notable Quotes
"Four men become suspects actually there's evidence whatsoever."
Discussing the lack of evidence against the accused men.
"Claiming Al Cleveland confessed him."
Referring to the informant's claims that led to wrongful charges.
"Look, made whole thing up. Guys it, going jail 25 years."
Avery's admission about his false testimony regarding the murder case.
"This is one of the worst cases ever seen."
Tomlinson's assessment of the injustice in the case.
"That's un-American. Well, know— That's look it."
Discussion about the implications of wrongful accusations in politics.