Howard Blum, author of "When The Night Comes Falling", joins the show to discuss Bryan Kohberger’s recent guilty plea in the University of Idaho murders. Kohberger admitted to killing four students in exchange for avoiding the death penalty, receiving four life sentences instead. The plea deal sparked controversy, with critics arguing it denied full justice. Blum and others explored the legal, ethical, and emotional implications of the case and its resolution.

State Representative Jerome "Zee" Zeringue joins the show to reflect on the recent legislative session, giving it a B- grade. He highlights key issues addressed, including the ongoing insurance crisis and efforts to restructure the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). Zeringue emphasizes the importance of reform and accountability in both areas, noting that while progress was made, more work is needed to fully resolve these complex challenges facing Louisiana.

Lieutenant Don Coppola from Capital Region Crimestoppers joins the show to discuss the effectiveness of anonymous tips that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of wanted criminals, including the five remaining inmates that are at large from the Orleans Parish Prison. If you have any information and would like to leave an anonymous tip, call 344-7867.

For more, visit: crimestoppers225.com and facebook.com/CS225

Ralph McCollister joins the show to discuss his opinion column which addresses a political dispute between former Baton Rouge Mayor Sharon Weston Broome and current Mayor-elect Sid Edwards, centered on the financial and political fallout from the incorporation of the City of St. George. Broome recently criticized Edwards for blaming her administration for the city’s budget issues, calling his claims “categorically false.” McCollister challenges Broome’s narrative, arguing that her past actions as a state senator—particularly her opposition to the creation of an independent school district in Southeast Baton Rouge—contributed to the current situation.

He asserts that Broome’s resistance led parents to push for city incorporation, mirroring past efforts in Central, Zachary, and Baker.McCollister accuses Broome of ignoring historical context and failing to lead effectively, especially in managing city finances and surrounding herself with competent advisors. He contends that her administration’s spending and political decisions exacerbated the current crisis, which Edwards now inherits. The conversation also touches on broader governance issues, including the challenges of the consolidated city-parish government, underfunding of the District Attorney’s office, and the need for equitable contributions from all cities within East Baton Rouge Parish.

The discussion concludes with concerns about fragmentation, governance inefficiencies, and the need for reform. McCollister advocates for collaborative leadership, historical awareness, and implementation of best practices from other cities. He emphasizes that without unity and action, Baton Rouge risks further decline in public services, safety, and population. The column ultimately serves as a call to acknowledge past missteps and work toward a more functional and inclusive future for the region.

Haggai Davis joins the show to discuss three major topics: Tesla’s upcoming self-driving taxi service and its potential impact on transportation, a tragic incident in Pennsylvania where a family's car was struck by a train, and the ongoing debate around Section 230, the law that protects online platforms from liability for user content. The conversation explores technology’s role in society, safety concerns, and the evolving landscape of internet regulation.

Megan Kelly joins the show to reflect on the life and legacy of televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, who passed away at age 90 following a heart attack. She highlighted his decades-long influence through preaching, music, and television ministry, despite past controversies. Kelly also discussed the future of Swaggart Ministries, emphasizing the need for leadership continuity and faith-based outreach to preserve his spiritual mission and global evangelical impact.

Dr. Stephen Procopio of the Public Affairs Research Council discussed Louisiana’s recent legislative session, which, though intended as a fiscal session, focused heavily on insurance reforms. Key actions included funding for roof fortification and changes to auto insurance and pharmacy benefit management. Fiscal impacts stemmed from the failure of Constitutional Amendment 2, creating a $200 million budget gap, especially affecting teacher pay raises. The session also addressed restructuring state agencies and proposed long-term tax reforms, including changes to the inventory tax system, now shifting control to local governments. Procopio anticipates gradual constitutional changes over time rather than sweeping reforms.

District Attorney Hillar Moore joins the show to discuss the findings of a recent legislative auditor’s report, which highlighted a looming financial crisis in his office. The report confirmed long-standing warnings that the DA’s office is on the brink of operating at a deficit, which is unconstitutional for a public office. Without additional funding, the office is projected to be $1.3 million in deficit by year’s end. Moore emphasized that while short-term fixes may help balance the budget temporarily, a long-term solution is urgently needed.

The DA’s office has historically relied on a complex and inefficient funding system, involving reimbursements from the city-parish. Moore explained that the local governing authority is constitutionally required to fund all “reasonable and necessary” expenses of the DA’s office, but defining those terms has been contentious. Staffing is a major concern—while Jefferson Parish has around 90 assistant DAs, East Baton Rouge has only 50, despite handling significantly more violent crime.

Budget cuts could severely impact community-based crime prevention programs and victim assistance services, which make up about 15% of the budget. These programs are vital for supporting victims and encouraging cooperation in prosecutions. Moore stressed that cutting these services would harm public safety.He also addressed the possibility of proposing a new tax to fund the office, but noted that past efforts failed due to voter fatigue and competing ballot issues. Instead, he advocates for a more equitable funding model where all cities within the parish contribute fairly, not just Baton Rouge. Moore concluded by reaffirming his commitment to working with local leaders to find a sustainable solution that prioritizes public safety.

Councilwoman Laurie White Adams joins the show to discuss Baton Rouge’s upcoming feature on On Patrol: Live, a reality TV series showcasing BRPD’s work. She also addressed a dramatic incident involving a stolen ambulance in her district earlier that morning. Additionally, Adams emphasized the importance of preserving historic oak and myrtle trees in the area, highlighting ongoing efforts to balance public safety, urban development, and environmental conservation.