Summary/Abstract

The host, David Tatman, begins by discussing the importance of researching and presenting issues without the noise and bias that is often found in the mainstream media. He talks about how the show will work to find and highlight the most important issues facing America today. Tatman then asks listeners to follow the show on social media and to join the conversation by liking, following, and commenting on the show's posts. The first deep dive of the season will be into crime, and Tatman promises to give the subject the attention it deserves over the course of a few episodes. The discussion of crime generally includes crime prevention, law enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, incarceration, and rehabilitation. The increase in crime is pervasive and chilling, and the causes are not fully known. However, former Chief of Police Greg Farris believes that some causes may include the defunding of police departments, the release of prisoners due to the pandemic, and the general feeling of unrest in the country. Farris also believes that more community involvement and investment in programs that help at-risk youth could help to reduce crime. Greg discusses the fear of crime that many Americans feel and how it affects their quality of life. He notes that crime is a problem both nationally and in Baton Rouge, and that it is often difficult to avoid. He cites the example of a recent murder in Covington, Louisiana, which occurred in what is generally considered to be a safe area. In the criminal justice system, there is a focus on rehabbing the criminal, rather than on the victim. This can lead to vigilante law. To effectively deal with this, law enforcement must interpose itself between the criminal and the victim, and ensure that justice is done.