Justice Journal (Sacramento County District Attorney's Office)

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert, Sacramento County Board of Education Trustee Karina Talamantes, Dr. Tiffany Heckendorn from UC Davis Health, Dr. Virginia Barrow, and Dr. Clarisse Glen from Kaiser Permanente and local high school students discuss the issue of youth vaping from each of their perspectives.

Show Notes:  Anne Marie opens with why she felt it was so important to talk about this issue and the current laws on youth vaping. 

Guests talk about why they think vaping is so appealing and widespread among youth, and the reaction to this crisis among public safety officials, school administrators, health care professionals and students. 

The discussion includes how students can vape on school campuses without detection and how school districts are working to address the issue.   There is a large focus on the alarming health impacts of vaping on youth.  Doctors from UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente share their medical expertise and insight on how and why youth are so severely affected by vaping.  They also share their concerns and challenges of youth vaping as well as what they have seen and experienced in their health care systems.  The series ends with three local high school students sharing their experiences and insight into why their peers vape.

Each episode ends with guests sharing what they think can and should be done to get youth to stop vaping and prevent new vapers as well as closing messages.

Resources: 

Kaiser Permanente’s “Don’t Buy the Lie” campaign is a yearly program that partners with high schools to have students come up with marketing materials for Kaiser’s teen focused anti-smoking campaigns. For more information, visit: https://kpdbtl.com/.  #StoptheVape

Tags: Justice Journal, Anne Marie Schubert, District Attorney, Sacramento County Board of Education, UC David Health, Kaiser Permanente, THC

Description: Discussion on DUI involving prescription and mixed drugs, and how to avoid driving while having an unintentional or intentional adverse reaction to prescription medicines and/or other drugs.

Show Notes:  Lead Deputy District Attorney Greg Hayes, Supervising Criminalist Craig Triebold and CHP Officer Travis Herbert participate in a discussion on DUIs involving prescription medicines and mixed drugs.

Officer Herbert talks about the challenge of identifying DUIs as a result of prescription and/or other drugs. They are general impairment arrests, with cause of impairment to be determined by the Crime Lab.    

Supervising Criminalist Triebold explains what the Crime Lab is seeing when analyzing DUI cases, specifically with prescription drugs and mixed drugs.  He gives the top 10 most prevalent drugs found and identified some of the brand name prescription drugs often found in DUI cases.

Lead Deputy DA Hayes explains the penal codes and different charges for DUI. He also talks about the difference between charging for DUI involving alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs and/or mixed drug use.  He goes on to talk about potential sentences for the different charges.  He then talks about some types of DUI cases the District Attorney’s Office is currently prosecuting, including those involving prescription medicines.

The group shares their advice on how to avoid adverse reactions to prescription medicines, the effects of medicines and knowing when it’s not safe to drive.  The three share the common messages of talk to your doctor about medicines they prescribe and ask questions about their side effects and adverse reactions.  Also, talk to your pharmacist and take advantage of the consultations they provide.  Finally, the lasting advice is if you don’t feel right, don’t drive.  

Those who intentionally misuse prescription medications should know there are significant changes to the effects on the brain and body then when used properly. These changes can significantly impact the ability to drive.  Those who intentionally abuse prescription meds and drives impaired will be arrested and prosecuted.

RESOURCES:

US Food & Drug Administration – Taking Medicine as Prescribed

National Institute on Drug Abuse – Prescription Medicines

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Tags – Justice Journal Podcast, DUI, DUID, Prescription Medicines, Drugs, Drug Mix Use

Description: Crime Lab Director Chip Pollock shares his background and career path to his current role.  He gives an overview of the Crime Lab, including what’s unique about the lab, the main areas of analysis conducted, who and how requests/evidence is submitted for analysis and the role of a Crime Lab in criminal cases.

Show Notes: Chip shares how he started down the road of science, his education, how he got interested in criminal forensic science and his path into the field.  With a college background in biochemistry, he was able to go right into the field of forensic science. 

He began his career at the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office working in forensic toxicology.  He went on to work as a criminalist at the California Department of Justice Crime Lab.   In 2001, Chip came to the Sacramento County District Attorneys’ Crime Lab.

Some unique aspects of the DA’s Crime Lab include that it is only one of four in the state managed by a District Attorney’s Office.  It also has advanced equipment for trace evidence analysis, which most other labs don’t have.  While other labs are decreasing investment in trace evidence, DA Schubert supports the mission of maintaining a top accredited trace evidence lab and cases have benefited. 

Main areas of analysis at the Crime Lab:  1) Comparative Evidence - firearms and tool marks, 2) Chemistry - controlled substances/drugs, 3) Toxicology - forensic alcohol and forensic toxicology, 4) Crime Scene Response Team - on call 24 hours/day, 5) DNA/Biology - sex assaults, cold cases, etc. and 6) Trace Evidence - gunshot residue, glass, fiber, etc.

Chip talks about the Crime Lab’s rape kit testing team, the process of testing kits and when kits are analyzed.  He also explains ways requests/evidence comes into lab for analysis, including from deputy district attorneys, law enforcement agencies and the Coroner’s Office.

There are currently 41 criminalists who process thousands of pieces of evidence per year - prioritizing analysis based on what will provide the most important information/answers.  Chip explains the Crime Lab’s role in a criminal case is to be the objective/science-based component to provide answers to questions.

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Tags - District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, True Crime, Justice Journal, Trace Evidence, Crime Lab, Crime Scene Investigation, CSI

Title –Online Child Sexual Predators: How Kids, Parents Can Be Internet, Social Media Smart- (pt.1) Justice Journal Episode 16

Description: Learn about the latest cyber threats kids are up against today, and how to prevent them from becoming victims of online sexual predators.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Leland Washington, Sheriff’s Detective Christie Hirota, and Scott Meyer from Folsom High School.

Christie starts with providing a backdrop of the cyber threats kids and teens face and the magnitude of the problem.  She talks about different ways kids are targeted and contacted by predators, some common internet crimes against children and predator MOs.

Scott talks about experiences and issues he knows about involving kids and social media – whether at Folsom High or within the Folsom community.  He also addresses some obstacles he sees to changing dangerous online behavior.

Leland explains what the District Attorney’s Office is doing to help protect our youth from a difficult and pervasive public safety issue through an interactive internet and social media program called #iSMART (Internet, Social Media Awareness, Resources & Training).  Leland talks us through an iSMART presentation and what is unique about it.  Scott shares how the program has been received by students at his school and if he thinks it’s getting through to them.  Leland also provides his insight into the general response and engagement level from students at the various schools.

Leland, Scott and Christie discuss how and why they think this type of program helps students avoid becoming victims and the role of parents.  They present some of the newest social media apps out there and new user trends that can pose more danger. Christie shares some basic principles of what kids and parents should know to protect themselves

They close with sharing what keeps them all motivated, hopeful and optimistic that the online world can be safer for everyone, especially for kids.

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Child Sexual Assault, Online Child Sexual Predator, Social Media Safety, Internet Safety, Folsom High School, Folsom, iSMART

Description: Discussion on Driving Under the Influence (DUI) involving marijuana cases, the increase in these cases, detecting marijuana impaired drivers, what the District Attorney’s Crime Lab is seeing in analyzing DUI toxicology samples, prosecuting these specific types of cases and the difference in the marijuana of today versus marijuana from decades ago. Guests are California Highway Patrol Officer Travis Herbert, Sacramento County District Attorney Crime Lab Director Michael Toms, DA criminalist Sara Porter and Lead Deputy District Attorney Kelly Clark.

Show Notes:  The discussion starts with California Highway Patrol Officer Travis explaining what CHP is seeing on the roads and highways.  Officer Travis also describes how officers can detect marijuana use by drivers during traffic stops.   

Crime Lab Director Michael Toms and DA Criminalist Sara Porter discuss recent statistics from analyzed DUI samples tested specifically for marijuana.  Toms talks about a database project currently in the works with the Coroner’s Office to detect DUI fatalities that involved marijuana. 

Lead Deputy District Attorney Kelly Clark talks through the different DUI charges and charges for marijuana use. 

The group provides information about the vast difference in marijuana today from decades ago – including significant increase in potency, different forms (vaping, edibles, etc.).  They also inform listeners they may not realize how potent marijuana is in the different forms and the dangers of increased potency and impact on driving. 

The group closes with key takeaways to prevent DUI and DUI involving marijuana.

RESOURCES:

California Office of Traffic Safety

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

DUI Brochure

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Tags – Justice Journal Podcast, Driving Under the Influence, Marijuana, THC, California Highway Patrol, CHP, Sacramento County District Attorney’s Crime Lab, OTS, Office of Traffic Safety, NHTSA, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Description: An examination of the 1999 hate crimes spree by the Williams Brothers with arson attacks on three Sacramento area Synagogues, the arson of a Sacramento abortion clinic and a double-murder in Shasta County. Guests talk through how these crimes were all linked and how the cases unfolded.  Guests are US Attorney McGregor Scott, DA Anne Marie Schubert, Judge Steven Lapham Supervising Criminalist Faye Springer, Retired ATF Agent Nina Delgadillo.

Show Notes:  Judge Lapham, Faye and Nina start by explaining the series of 1999 arsons, starting with the first incident including the locations and timeline.  There were three arsons at Sacramento area Synagogues. There was also a Sacramento abortion clinic that was fire bombed about two weeks after those arsons.

They move on to the initial investigation and what was found at the arson crime scenes.   They talk about what was immediately known or suspected when the crimes occurred.  Faye gets into the evidence preserved at the crime scene and some of the forensic evidence and analysis involved in this case and how it contributed to the investigation of the arsons.

US Attorney Scott then talks about the murders of a Shasta County couple, and the group discusses how the investigation into those murders started to connect with the Sacramento-area arson cases.

The group explains how and when the Williams brothers were initially arrested and on what charges to the building of the murder and arson charges/cases.  They talk about what they learned about the Williams brothers over the course of the investigation into the murders and arsons.

They move on to talk about how and when the Shasta County double-murder case and the Sacramento County arson cases proceeded - from charged filed to final resolution of both cases.

The discussion closes with final thoughts and reflection about the Williams brother hate crime spree, and about the current and ongoing threat of hate crimes in our communities.

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal Podcast, US Attorney for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California McGregor Scott, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Stephen Lapham, Retired ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) Agent Nina Delgadillo, Hate Crimes, Summer of Terror, Summer of Hate, Benjamin Matthew Williams, James Tyler Williams, Arson, Fire Bombing, B'nai Israel, Congregation Beth Shalom and Kenesset Israel Torah Center, Synagogue, Choice Medial Group Abortion Clinic, Gary Matson, Winfield Mowder.

Description: Learn how the power of DNA forensic science and technology have cracked cold cases.  DA Anne Marie Schubert shares her passion for DNA forensics and highlights cold cases from the 70s and 80s, including the East Area Rapist/Golden State Killer. 

Show Notes: District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert is nationally known for forensic DNA and cold case prosecutions.  Schubert talks about her background, experience and passion for pursuing justice through DNA evidence and cold case prosecutions.  Schubert believes DNA is the most powerful tool to not only identify and hold perpetrators accountable, but to also exonerate the innocent.   

Some notable cold cases are highlighted, including the recent arrest and pending prosecution of Joseph DeAngelo for what has been coined the East Area Rapist, Golden State Killer.  The 2012 capital murder cold case against Richard Hirschfeld for the 1980 UC Davis Sweetheart Murders, the 1977 murder of 15-year-old Penny Parker and 1989 murder of 80-year-old Sophia McAllister are also discussed. 

Schubert presents other positive developments that came out of pursuing these cold cases, including the passage of Prop 69, the Dead Inmate Project and a recent arrest of a Nevada prison inmate who was linked to a series of cold case crimes.  

Schubert shares her thoughts on how far DNA forensics and technology have come and new innovative ways it is helping to solve cold cases.    

About District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert

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Tags: District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, Justice, East Area Rapist, Golden State Killer, True Crime, Justice Journal

Description: A personal story of losing a loved one to a DUI offender nearly 14 years ago, the lasting impacts of that loss, about the court process, what more can be done to prevent DUI crashes and deaths and what is being done to help victims and prevent more DUI tragedies. 

Show Notes:  Guests Cody Spaeth and Lead Deputy District Attorney Gregory Hayes introduce themselves. Deputy DA Hayes explains his current role related to DUI cases and the DUI/DUID prosecution and Education Outreach program.  Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Cody begins the discussion by sharing her personal story – starting with what her family was like prior to April 2009, who her father Stan was, what he was like and what Cody remembers most about him.  She then talks through the night her father was killed by an already four-time repeat DUI offender. Cody shares how the crash happened, what happened to her father and the traumatic way she and her mother found out that her father was killed by a DUI driver.   

Cody explains what happened in the criminal case against the DUI offender and her experience going through the court process starting when she was just 14 years old.  Deputy DA Greg Hayes then explains current DUI laws as well as available victim support services and victims’ rights advocacy.

Since undergoing those very traumatic experiences, Cody now speaks to high school students and DUI offender classes to educate and prevent more victims and their families from experiencing the same tragedy.

DDA Hayes and shares information about the many DUI prevention efforts being made by the DA’s Office, including a number of programs for high school students as well as programs for adults. 

Cody closes the discussion by talking about the lasting impact her father’s death has had on her and her family– how it led her to her current profession, helping other victims and speaking to the public about how every life matters.  

RESOURCES:

https://madd.org/

https://www.arrivealiveca.com/

https://www.sacda.org/in-the-community/community-programs/

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Description: An examination of the 1999 hate crimes spree by the Williams Brothers with arson attacks on three Sacramento area Synagogues, the arson of a Sacramento abortion clinic and a double-murder in Shasta County. Guests talk through how these crimes were all linked and how the cases unfolded.  Guests are US Attorney McGregor Scott, DA Anne Marie Schubert, Judge Steven Lapham Supervising Criminalist Faye Springer, Retired ATF Agent Nina Delgadillo.

Show Notes:  Judge Lapham, Faye and Nina start by explaining the series of 1999 arsons, starting with the first incident including the locations and timeline.  There were three arsons at Sacramento area Synagogues. There was also a Sacramento abortion clinic that was fire bombed about two weeks after those arsons.

They move on to the initial investigation and what was found at the arson crime scenes.   They talk about what was immediately known or suspected when the crimes occurred.  Faye gets into the evidence preserved at the crime scene and some of the forensic evidence and analysis involved in this case and how it contributed to the investigation of the arsons.

US Attorney Scott then talks about the murders of a Shasta County couple, and the group discusses how the investigation into those murders started to connect with the Sacramento-area arson cases.

The group explains how and when the Williams brothers were initially arrested and on what charges to the building of the murder and arson charges/cases.  They talk about what they learned about the Williams brothers over the course of the investigation into the murders and arsons.

They move on to talk about how and when the Shasta County double-murder case and the Sacramento County arson cases proceeded - from charged filed to final resolution of both cases.

The discussion closes with final thoughts and reflection about the Williams brother hate crime spree, and about the current and ongoing threat of hate crimes in our communities.

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal Podcast, US Attorney for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California McGregor Scott, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Stephen Lapham, Retired ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) Agent Nina Delgadillo, Hate Crimes, Summer of Terror, Summer of Hate, Benjamin Matthew Williams, James Tyler Williams, Arson, Fire Bombing, B'nai Israel, Congregation Beth Shalom and Kenesset Israel Torah Center, Synagogue, Choice Medial Group Abortion Clinic, Gary Matson, Winfield Mowder.

Description: District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert moderated a panel on examples of heroes in humanity within our community.  Panelists are Brother to Brother Co-Founder Mervin Brookins, Elk Grove Police Chief Bryan Noblett, La Familia Counseling Center Executive Director Rachel Rios and Shiloh Baptist Church Pastor Anthony Sadler.  

Show Notes: The 20th Annual Public Safety & Community Appreciation Luncheon was held on May 3, 2019.  The theme of the event was “Celebrating Heroes in Humanity,” which highlighted the everyday heroes among us who contribute to humanity through acts of kindness, compassion and helping others in need. 

Panelists Brother to Brother Co-Founder Mervin Brookins, Elk Grove Police Chief Bryan Noblett, La Familia Counseling Center Executive Director Rachel Rios and Shiloh Baptist Church Pastor Anthony Sadler provided their unique insight on 1) what they believe makes a hero within their organization, 2) challenges their organizations have faced and how they have seen heroes rise within their organization– sharing a specific story/example, and 3) what they think we can do together to inspire others, to rise above our challenges and to promote humanity within our community.

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Description: Discussion on what mass victimization trauma is and how the Mass Victimization Crisis Response Team works together to provide support services for those directly and indirectly impacted by a large-scale, multi-victim criminal incident.  

Show Notes:  District Attorney Victim Witness Assistance Program Manager Nina Acosta provides a general overview of the District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program and what services they provide to victims of crime. 

Nina and District Attorney Victim Advocate Michelle Husbands define and discuss mass victimization trauma and the difference between services provided to direct victims who were physically injured and indirect victims who were not injured but witnessed the incident.

Michelle explains what the Mass Victimization Response Team is, what organizations are typically involved, how they work together and our office’s role on team.  

Nina and Michelle discuss the Family Assistance Center that was recently setup in Sacramento and that services are still available for those impacted now, and months from now if needed.  Some may take longer to process a traumatic event, so resources can be found on the Sacramento County District Attorney’s website when they are ready to seek assistance.

Nina and Michelle close by sharing their closing thoughts on mass victimization trauma, signs of trauma and the importance of those who might need assistance to contact one of the many available resources.

RESOURCES:

https://www.sacda.org/victim-services/victim-witness-assistance-program/

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Tags – Mass Victimization Trauma, Sacramento County District Attorney Victim Witness Assistance Program, Victim Advocates, Mass Victimization Crisis Response Team, Justice Journal Podcast

Description: Discussion on the Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Treatment Court – including the goals, criteria and eligibility, program treatments and requirements, the collaborative process, successes and story of program graduate. Guest are Judge Lawrence Brown, Deputy District Attorney Judith Mummert, Assistant Public Defender Maegan Gannon and, program graduate Alberto.

Show Notes: The discussion starts with Judge Brown giving background on the Driving Under the Influence Treatment Court (DUITC) and the court’s goals.

Deputy DA Mummert and Assistant PD Gannon then explain the DUITC in general – when it started in Sacramento County, eligibility requirements, about the program – participating agencies/organizations, treatment services, requirements, completion.

The group talks about the collaborative process of the court and how they work together behind the scenes as well as in the courtroom. They also address overcoming challenges and working through disagreements.

Stats are provided on number of Sacramento County graduates as well as national stats on the success of DUITC. Deputy DA Mummert and Assistant PD Gannon describe the diverse participants accepted into the DUITC program that are reflective of the Sacramento community.

The group talks about how they feel about being a part of the specialized court, why they believe it’s successful and the importance of continuing the DUITC in this county.

Program graduate, Alberto, then shares his story and what led him to DUITC. Alberto talks about his experience in the program, how it helped him and how he is doing today.

The episode ends with closing thoughts from the group on the importance of DUITC and Alberto’s successful completion of the program and turning his life around.

RESOURCES:

Sacramento County Collaborative Courts - DUI Treatment Court

DUI Treatment Court Statistics

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Tags – Justice Journal Podcast, Driving Under the Influence, Collaborative Courts, DUI Treatment Court, recidivism, repeat offenders, OTS, Office of Traffic Safety, NHTSA, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Sacramento County Superior Court

Description: Brother to Brother Co-Founder Mervin Brookins along with District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert and Sacramento Police Chief Daniel Hahn talk about the trust and partnership they have developed, and how they are working together to address public safety challenges, improve the lives of individuals and create healthier, safer neighborhoods throughout Sacramento.

Show Notes: Mervin starts by telling listeners about himself and Brother to Brother, including his background as well as how Brother to Brother helps to restore lives, rebuild neighborhoods and bring the community together.

Chief Hahn and Anne Marie discuss how they got to know Mervin and how their relationship with Mervin developed into one of mutual trust and respect.  They give examples of how Mervin works with the DA’s Office and the Sacramento Police Department to support each other’s efforts to re-build and improve the lives of individuals, and improve the safety and well-being of everyone in the Sacramento community.  The three then discuss how their partnership between Brother to Brother and the DA/law enforcement impacts their role and goals in serving the community, and how important these kinds of relationships are to both Mervin and public safety agencies. 

The conversation continues to discuss challenges each organization has faced and success stories of how their partnership allowed them to address the challenges and keep moving forward.   The key is they work with each other versus against each other for the greater good, especially those who are at-risk or underserved. 

Mervin talks about how he informs the community about Brother to Brother and the work they do, which is primarily by word-of-mouth within the community. 

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Sacramento Police Department, Chief Daniel Hahn, Mervin Brookins, Brother to Brother, Neighborhood Wellness Foundation

Human Trafficking: Helping Victims and Cracking Down on Demand (pt.2) - Justice Journal Episode 25

Description: A discussion on the issue of human trafficking – where it happens, how it happens, who are the victims – and what is being done to prosecute traffickers, help victims, educate the community and prevent future victims.  Guests are Sacramento County Deputy District Attorney Danielle Abildgaard, Investigator Annette Fucles, Victim Advocate Beatrice (Bea) Lavrov and Sacramento Police Detective Jason Collins.

Show Notes:  Danielle explains the difference between human trafficking, pimping and pandering – how human trafficking is defined.  Bea and Annette explain how that is different from smuggling. 

Jason clarifies that human trafficking isn’t the way it’s portrayed in movies – victims are usually kept local vs. being kidnapped and transported far away.  Human trafficking does not need to involve a form of travel, transportation, or movement across state or national borders.

They talk about some red flags and indicators that signify a possible human trafficking situation.  They discuss where human trafficking occurs, how victims are targeted and recruited and who the victims are – some common traits.  They explain why victims of trafficking don’t run away to escape or ask for help.  Most victims of human trafficking do not self-identify as a victim of a crime and do not ask for help immediately.  There is a special collaborative court designed to provide wrap-around services and programs to help victims get out of the life.  There is also a similar collaborative court for children victims of sex trafficking, specialized to help with trauma and other unique needs.

The conversation also addresses labor trafficking and the difference in how those victims are targeted and kept in trafficking situations.

The group shares what is being done to prevent human trafficking and help victims through the Sacramento Together Anti-Human Trafficking coalition.  Efforts include cracking down on the demand side while reaching out to victims and offering them services.  The coalition also helps build stronger cases and make connections to other cases in other jurisdictions.  The coalition also works to raise awareness among the public.

The group then talks about the unique needs of the human trafficking victims and the important role of the victim advocate working closely with Annette and law enforcement.  Bea talks about the challenges and rewards working with human trafficking victims, and how it is important to provide the victim with continuity and build trust with them. 

If someone believes they are witnessing a trafficking situation, call 911.  If someone wants to report a non-emergency possible human trafficking situation or suspected victim/trafficker – call the human trafficking hotline at 888.373.7888.

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Tags - District Attorney, Justice Journal Podcast, Human Trafficking, Sex Trafficking, Labor Trafficking, Pimping, Pandering, Victim Advocate

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert, Sacramento County Board of Education Trustee Karina Talamantes, Dr. Tiffany Heckendorn from UC Davis Health, Dr. Virginia Barrow, and Dr. Clarisse Glen from Kaiser Permanente and local high school students discuss the issue of youth vaping from each of their perspectives.

Show Notes:  Anne Marie opens with why she felt it was so important to talk about this issue and the current laws on youth vaping. 

Guests talk about why they think vaping is so appealing and widespread among youth, and the reaction to this crisis among public safety officials, school administrators, health care professionals and students. 

The discussion includes how students can vape on school campuses without detection and how school districts are working to address the issue.   There is a large focus on the alarming health impacts of vaping on youth.  Doctors from UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente share their medical expertise and insight on how and why youth are so severely affected by vaping.  They also share their concerns and challenges of youth vaping as well as what they have seen and experienced in their health care systems.  The series ends with three local high school students sharing their experiences and insight into why their peers vape.

Each episode ends with guests sharing what they think can and should be done to get youth to stop vaping and prevent new vapers as well as closing messages.

Resources: 

Kaiser Permanente’s “Don’t Buy the Lie” campaign is a yearly program that partners with high schools to have students come up with marketing materials for Kaiser’s teen focused anti-smoking campaigns. For more information, visit: https://kpdbtl.com/.  #StoptheVape

Tags: Justice Journal, Anne Marie Schubert, District Attorney, Sacramento County Board of Education, UC David Health, Kaiser Permanente, THC

Description: How the Community & Government Relations Division is working in, and with, the community.  Programs and partnerships are highlighted, including an introduction to a specific example involving a Memorandum of Understanding with Motel 6. 

Show Notes: Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Natalia Luna gives an overview of the Community & Government Relations (CGR) Division and the units within the division, including the Community Prosecution Unit. 

Community prosecutors Deputy District Attorney Ron Linthicum and Deputy District Attorney Joy Smiley join the conversation to talk about the office’s many community prevention and education programs for youth and adults as well as the broad range of partnerships they have in the county.  

Ron and Joy talk in more detail about the type of work/activities they do on a regular basis.  A number of examples of CPU’s non-traditional approach to handling cases and outside-the-box programs, partnerships and accomplishments are discussed.

The focus is turned to one particular example that is unique, unprecedented and demonstrates the role of community prosecutors and how CPU works to address neighborhood crime - the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Motel 6. 

Using the Motel 6 MOU as a case example, Ron, Joy and Natalia talk through how CPU started the ball rolling to what ultimately led to the MOU agreement.   They detail out from when they were made aware of issues at Motel 6 properties to how the situation was elevated to a broad multi-agency discussion of how to address the issues to a meeting with local public agencies and Motel 6 representatives. 

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Tags - District Attorney, True Crime, Justice Journal, Motel 6, nuisance, Quality of Life Crimes, Community Prosecution Unit, Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Youth Intervention

Description: A conversation with City of Refuge Co-Founder and Refuge Housing Director Rachelle Ditmore on how the organization started, what they do and who they serve, the importance of community outreach, their partnership with the District Attorney’s Office and being a beneficiary of the District Attorney’s Public Safety and Community Improvement Fund.

Show Notes: Rachelle Ditmore, co-founder and Refuge Housing director of City of Refuge, talks about how and why City of Refuge was started and who they serve through their many programs and services.  She shares shining examples of how City of Refuge has impacted and changed lives.

Rachelle explains how community outreach and building relationships is something they do every day, it’s not just a program or project.  They work on getting to know people in the neighborhood one person at a time, and always looking to partner with other community organizations.

She gives background on how she was first connected with the District Attorney’s Office and the partnership that has been formed.   She gives insight into how the community can improve the work being done and the most important things we can do to enhance the lives of children and everyone in our community.

The conversation shifts to Motel 6 MOU and the community investment Motel 6 made through the District Attorney’s Public Safety & Community Improvement Fund.  City of Refuge was selected to receive funding from this investment and Rachelle shares what that funding went toward and what it meant to receive that financial support.

Rachelle reflects on challenges she has faced, how she overcomes challenges, what inspires her and what keeps her motivated.

For listeners who want to learn more about City of Refuge and its programs or services or how they can help, Rachelle provides information on how people can reach them and their need for volunteer service, donations and financial support. 

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Description: The Elected DAs of Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and Santa Clara counties and Peace Over Violence on how they are working in innovative ways to continue serving and protecting victims of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse and sexual assault during unprecedented times.

Show Notes:  Sacramento County DA Anne Marie Schubert hosts this discussion with Alameda County DA Nancy O’Malley, Los Angeles County DA Jackie Lacey, San Diego County DA Summer Stephan and Santa Clara County DA Jeff Rosen, and is later joined by Peace Over Violence Executive Director Patricia (Patti) Giggans.   

DA O’Malley begins by providing background on Alameda County, her professional background and serving as president of the California District Attorneys Association (CDAA).  She then shares some different and innovative ways her office continues to engage and serve victims, including through their Human Trafficking Task Force and Family Justice Center.  DA Lacey talks about LA County and some innovative ways they are also working to reach and protect victims, including through their “Behind Closed Doors” program.  DA Lacey also shares a personal story about domestic violence.  DA Rosen talks about how they are able to continue office operations, the unique demographics of Santa Clara County and their hate crimes PSA aimed at addressing Asians being targeted in their community.  Rosen also discusses innovative ways they are serving victims, including a soon-to-be launched app for victims to receive notifications and information.  DA Stephan talks about San Diego County and how her office has shifted to more use of technology to continue operations and meet timelines.  She also talks about new and innovative ways they are working to protect victims, including the elderly who are at nursing homes and children during school closures. 

DA O’Malley closes part one of the discussion by talking about a domestic violence, child abuse and elder abuse public awareness campaign and partnership with California district attorneys through CDAA and the California Grocers Association.   

Part two begins with DA Lacey introducing Peace Over Violence Executive Director Patricia (Patti) Giggans.  Patti talks about the Peace Over Violence organization, including its work and mission.  She provides the origins and history of Denim Day, the importance of raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault and how they are still holding a virtual Denim Day. 

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For more information on Peace Over Violence and Denim Day, visit PeaceOverViolence.org. 

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Description: Discussion on actionable criminal animal cruelty, background on the Animal Cruelty Unit & Regional Task Force, examples of cases, the importance of educating the community on animal cruelty and how the public can help reduce and prevent animal cruelty.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Hilary Bagley- Franzoia, City of Sacramento Chief Animal Control Officer Jace Huggins and Veterinarian Dr. Sara Harrison. 

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves and explain their roles within their organizations and their personal passion and commitment to protecting animals.

Guests talk about how they all work together on the Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force and the changes it has made to the investigation and prosecution of cases.  This includes how it has changed the training of animal control officers and the changing trend in the work of these officers.  Dr. Harrison shares how she works with the Task Force, her integral role and expertise in conducting necropsies and how that helps with criminal cases. 

The group also discusses what is actionable criminal animal cruelty - including physical cruelty and neglect – the existing laws for animal cruelty cases, examples of animal cruelty cases and consequences for the offenders and the unique challenges with animal cruelty cases.  They also provide insight into what they feel is key to preventing animal cruelty and neglect, including educating children and the general public about how to properly treat and care for animals and what do if they suspect or witness animal cruelty and how to report it.

They provide information on free and/or mobile spay, neuter and animal vaccination clinics that are available in different parts of the city and county. 

Guests stress the proven and prevalent link between animal cruelty and violence against people with statistics and examples of cases – many involving domestic violence. 

They close with the importance of continuing the accomplishments and progress made by the Animal Cruelty Unit and Task Force.  

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Tags - District Attorney, Animal Cruelty Unit, Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force, Animal Cruelty, Animal Cruelty, Justice Journal Podcast, Sacramento City Animal Control, Animal Neglect, Animal Abuse

Title –Online Child Sexual Predators: How Kids, Parents Can Be Internet, Social Media Smart (pt. 2)- Justice Journal Episode 17

Description: Learn about the latest cyber threats kids are up against today, and how to prevent them from becoming victims of online sexual predators.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Leland Washington, Sheriff’s Detective Christie Hirota, and Scott Meyer from Folsom High School.

Christie starts with providing a backdrop of the cyber threats kids and teens face and the magnitude of the problem.  She talks about different ways kids are targeted and contacted by predators, some common internet crimes against children and predator MOs.

Scott talks about experiences and issues he knows about involving kids and social media – whether at Folsom High or within the Folsom community.  He also addresses some obstacles he sees to changing dangerous online behavior.

Leland explains what the District Attorney’s Office is doing to help protect our youth from a difficult and pervasive public safety issue through an interactive internet and social media program called #iSMART (Internet, Social Media Awareness, Resources & Training).  Leland talks us through an iSMART presentation and what is unique about it.  Scott shares how the program has been received by students at his school and if he thinks it’s getting through to them.  Leland also provides his insight into the general response and engagement level from students at the various schools.

Leland, Scott and Christie discuss how and why they think this type of program helps students avoid becoming victims and the role of parents.  They present some of the newest social media apps out there and new user trends that can pose more danger. Christie shares some basic principles of what kids and parents should know to protect themselves

They close with sharing what keeps them all motivated, hopeful and optimistic that the online world can be safer for everyone, especially for kids.

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Child Sexual Assault, Online Child Sexual Predator, Social Media Safety, Internet Safety, Folsom High School, Folsom, iSMART

Description: Discussion on a real estate fraud case that went to jury trial in the age of the pandemic, the impact the case had on the victims and tips to avoid becoming a real estate fraud victim.  Guests are DA Deputy District Attorney Sam Nong, DA Investigator Jason Halstead and fraud victims Carolyn, Maria and Eman.

 Show Notes:  This episode is part of a series highlighting successful jury trials held in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as an effort to raise awareness about fraud during International Fraud Awareness Week.

Sam and Jason introduce themselves and explain their roles within the Real Estate Fraud Unit.  They also provide background on what kinds of cases they investigate and prosecute as well as how these cases are reported.

Sam and Jason talk through the case of People vs. Shaun Smith and Peter Halo by providing the facts in the case, including the crimes committed and the victims they targeted. 

Some of the victims in this case, Carolyn, Maria and Eman, then introduce themselves and share what happened to them, how they were victimized by the defendants and the impact it had on them and their families.

Sam and Jason talk through the prosecution of this case – from the initial investigation and filing of charges, to jury trial and sentencing.  They also discussed holding the jury trial during COVID-19 and how things were done differently to keep everyone safe through the court process.   They brought up some challenges and inspirational aspects that came about from the experience. 

Carolyn, Maria and Eman shared how their thoughts and feelings when the defendants were convicted and sentenced as well as having the jury trial under unprecedented circumstances.

The group offers tips and alerts to help others avoid becoming victims to similar fraud scams.

The discussion closes with silver linings, including how the victims developed friendships with each other and the prosecution team.  

For updates on when programs will start again after COVID-19, visit the Invictus Youth Foundation website or Facebook page.  There will also be information on upcoming fundraising events, including a potential golf tournament in October, a banquet and possible concert fundraisers.

Resources:

Press release: People vs. Shaun Smith and Peter Halo

For more information on Real Estate Fraud and to report suspected fraud, visit:  https://www.sacda.org/in-the-courtroom/real-estate-fraud/

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Description: How the cold case prosecution for the 1980 murders of two UC Davis students unfolded over 30+ years.  Part 3 talks through the trial - from evidence presented, including a suicide note, to witnesses to closing arguments and then - the jury’s verdict.  

Show Notes: Bladet talks through the trial process – from the many pre-trial motions, evidence presented, to witnesses testimony to closing arguments and when the case went to the jury. 

Evidence included a suicide note from Richard Hirschfield’s brother, Joseph.  Garverick explains the story behind Joseph, his suicide, the note he left for his wife and reads excerpts from the note.   Bladet explains how she was able to get a redacted version of the note into evidence, which is rare, and how it also created a “dual edge” by admitting it. 

Find out if the jury convicts, on what charges and how long it took them to return their verdict.  Bladet shares how she and the Riggins and Gonsalves families felt after the verdict was read.  

This case was featured on 48 Hours (https://www.cbsnews.com/video/the-sweetheart-murders-3/).

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Keywords - District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, UC Davis, Sweetheart Murders, Justice, Capital Murder, Death Penalty, True Crime, Justice Journal

Title: Special COVID-19 Series: Child Abuse Victim Assistance During Stay at Home Order –Justice Journal Episode 35

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert, Sacramento County Office of Education Superintendent Dave Gordon, The Child Abuse Prevention Center President & CEO Sheila Boxley, Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services Director Michelle Callejas, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Detective Christie Hirota, and Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Dawn Bladet discuss how child abuse victims can still get help and services during this time.

Show Notes:  Dave, Michelle, Sheila and Christie give brief overviews of how their organizations support children and protect and assist victims of child abuse. 

Dave talks about how educators and school districts are adjusting to how they engage with students and their ability to identify and report suspected abuse during this time of unprecedented school closures.

Michelle and Sheila then explain how their organizations are still working remotely, or adhering to the social distance public health safety precautions, to engage and protect children.  They each discuss different ways they are working - whether by text, chat, social media messaging or traditional hotlines/phone calls.

Christie shares how children and their parents can protect themselves from online predators and threats.  She also talks about challenges and solutions to children being at home on their devices and online more than ever with distance learning. 

Dawn explains how child abuse cases and the court process is different during the public health order, but that the justice system continues to work and DA victim advocates are still providing support services.  They also discuss changes to bail to lessen the jail population. 

The group closes by discussing how the community can help prevent and protect victims of child abuse by reaching out to family, friends, colleagues and neighbors to check on them.  If they hear, see and suspect something is not right and a child might be in an abusive situation – to report it.

To listen to the Domestic Violence Resources During the COVID-19 Stay At Home Order Zoom Podcast, visit https://www.sacda.org/media/podcast

For alerts on price gouging and looting during a state of emergency as well as the public health order, visit our website at sacda.org.  For the latest COVID-19 information and status updates visit Sacramento County’s website at saccounty.net.

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Description: Discussion on Elder Abuse crimes, kinds of cases the DA’s Office sees, the role of the DA victim advocate in these cases and some tips alerts to help detect and prevent abuse and becoming a victim of common scams.  Guests are Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Paul Durenberger, Deputy District Attorney Frederick (Fritz) Gotha, Victim Advocate Bridgid Moffett Yeo.

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves and explains their role within the office and the Elder Abuse Unit.

Paul and Frederick explain who would be considered a victim of elder abuse and the different type of abuse.  They then talk about the DA’s Elder Abuse Unit and how prevalent these cases are within Sacramento County - what kinds of cases they see most often, and who are often the abusers.

Bridgid talks about how she works with Elder Abuse victims and how she and Frederick work together.   They talk about the most challenging, or complicated, cases they handle.  They also share examples of cases that had a good result from both the victim and prosecution standpoint.

Frederick talks about the current laws to protect elders, and if he thinks they should be changed and adjusted or if there is a need for new laws.

Paul talks about the Elder Death Review Team (EDRT).   There are unfortunately some cases of suspicious deaths of elder and dependent adults.  Paul, explains how EDRT started, who is involved and the purpose of the review team.  He then shares some of the findings from the most recent review and report.

The group then provides advice for victims as well as warnings for potential victims in terms of what to do if they are being victimized and how to protect themselves.  They talk about some common scams that target seniors, and how they can protect themselves from being scammed.   They also talk about important resources available to anyone who needs help or would like more information on Elder Abuse.

They end with closing thoughts on Elder Abuse crimes and its victims. 

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Tags - District Attorney, Elder Abuse, Dependent Adult Abuse, Justice Journal Podcast, Victim Advocate, Elder Death Review Team

Title: Special COVID-19 Series: Domestic Violence Victim Assistance During Stay at Home Order –Justice Journal Episode 34

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert, Chief Daniel Hahn, E.D. of WEAVE Beth Hassett, E.D. of My Sister’s House Nilda Valmores, Sacramento Regional Family Justice Center CEO Faith Whitmore, Assistant Chief Deputy DA Dawn Bladet and DA Supervising Victim Advocate Lisa Corral discuss how DV victims can still get help and services during this time.

Show Notes:  Beth, Nilda and Faith give brief overviews of how WEAVE, My Sister’s House and the Family Justice Center help victims of domestic violence. 

Chief Hahn, Beth, Nilda, Dawn and Lisa then all discuss how their organizations are still working to protect and assist domestic violence while working remotely or adhering to the social distance public health safety precautions.  They each discuss different ways they are working, whether by text, chat or traditional phone calls.

Dawn and Lisa explain how DV cases and the court process is different during the public health order, but that the justice system continues to work and DA victim advocates are still providing support services.  They also discuss changes to bail to lessen the jail population. 

The group closes by discussing how the community can help prevent and protect victims of domestic violence by reaching out to family, friends, colleagues and neighbors to check on them.  If they hear, see and suspect something is not right and someone might be in an abusive situation – to report it.

For alerts on price gouging and looting during a state of emergency as well as the public health order, visit our website at sacda.org.  For the latest COVID-19 information and status updates visit Sacramento County’s website at saccounty.net.

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Description: A discussion on human trafficking trends and prevention efforts in recognition of Human Trafficking Awareness month moderated by Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Thien Ho.  Guests are Ashlie Bryant, 3Strands Global Co-Founder, President and CEO, and Courtney Martin, Deputy District Attorney, who is assigned to the human trafficking unit at the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office.

Show Notes: Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney, Thien Ho moderates a discussion about human trafficking awareness.   Ashlie Bryant, 3Strands Global Co-Founder, President and CEO talks about how she began her work in combatting human trafficking, and the two specific areas of prevention 3Strands focuses on: education and employment. 

She discusses the education component by describing their “Protect” program, which instructs teachers on how to spot victims of trafficking, as well as teach students what exploitation looks like and what it means to be safe.  The program is taught at various schools nationwide from K-12 grades.  Ashlie then describes achieving prevention through employment which 3Strands offers through their “Employ plus Empower” program.    

Deputy District Attorney Courtney Martin, discusses how she views the problem from 3 sides: demand, distribution and supply.  She describes her efforts to curtail human trafficking through prosecution, working with law enforcement, and providing support to those who have been trafficked.

The group then discusses current trends they have observed, which have been negatively impacted by the “stay in place” orders of the pandemic.  They discuss red flags, their tips on what the community can do to help combat human trafficking, and how they collaborate with many organizations to provide a net for survivors and victims of exploitation. 

If someone believes they are witnessing a trafficking situation, call 911.  To report a non-emergency human possible human trafficking situation or suspected victim/trafficker – call the human trafficking hotline at 888.373.7888 or text “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733.

For listeners who want to learn more about 3Strands and its programs or services, Ashlie provides information on how people can reach their organization. 

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Tags – District Attorney, Justice Journal Podcast, Human Trafficking, Sex Trafficking, Labor Trafficking, Pimping, Pandering, Victim Advocate, CASH, Community Against Sexual Harm, 3Strands Global

Description: Discussion on problem of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) and/or drugs (DUID) and the education and prevention efforts among youth – focusing mostly on teenagers.

Show Notes: Judge Curtis Fiorini, Deputy District Attorney Stefanie Mahaffey, CEO Angela Webb of Arrive Alive, California and CHP Officer Travis Herbert discuss the issue of DUI/DUID and efforts to educate and prevent teenagers from becoming offenders or victims.

They start by talking about the problem of DUI/DUID in the Sacramento community. In 2020, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office filed 263 felony and 3,954 misdemeanor DUI/DUID cases. Stefanie states the case rates are tracking the same in 2021 and so far in 2022.

The group then shares the specific challenges of DUI/DUID among youth. Officer Herbert details what he and other CHP officers observe with youth who are under the influence and how it affects them more profoundly than adults.

The discussion turns to the importance of reaching teenagers, and younger kids, early on to educate them about DUI issues. Angela then explains what the “Real DUI Court in Schools” program. Judge Fiorini and Stefanie talk about how they are involved in the program? The group shares the feedback they receive and their thoughts/insights into the program. Officer Herbert talks about additional youth DUI/DUID programs the CHP holds, including “Every 15 Minutes.”

All participants close the discussion by giving parents/guardians advice and resources to help prevent their teenagers from driving under the influence or getting into a vehicle with an impaired driver.

RESOURCES: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) at MADD.org

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Tags – Justice Journal Podcast, DUI, DUID, Youth Offenders, Arrive Alive, California Highway Patrol, CHP, Office of Traffic Safety, OTS, MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Description: Discussion with longtime driving under the influence (DUI) prevention partner the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) about how the organization works to protect the safety of all those on our highways and roads as well as pedestrians. 

Show Notes:  Guest Deputy Director of Marketing & Public Affairs Tim Weisberg from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Lead Deputy District Attorney Gregory Hayes introduce themselves – their backgrounds and current roles.

Weisberg describes his past professional background and his current role managing all OTS marketing, media campaigns and outreach programs. 

Hayes explains his past professional background and current role related to DUI cases and the DUI/DUID prosecution and Education Outreach program.  Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

Weisberg provides background on OTS – its mission, history and how it’s working to keep people safe on our roads and highways.  He also details what types of organizations OTS most often partners with and how they support them.  One of the ways OTS supports organizations is through grants.

Host, Shelly Orio, discusses how OTS has supported the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office for many years – with grants totaling nearly $8.75 million since 2010. These grants have funded the prosecution of DUI/DUID cases, training for law enforcement officers on DUI/DUID investigations, prevention programs, Crime Lab purchases of specialized equipment to test for certain drugs, many new breath alcohol testing devices and an instrument to analyze alcohol (gas) in blood samples.  OTS grants have also funded Crime Lab staff overtime costs to provide on-site assistance at DUI checkpoints.

Hayes shares his experience facilitating the OTS grant, how he has seen these grant dollars put into action and the impact the grant work has had on prosecutions and student education.

Weisberg explains the other types of grants OTS funds and for what types of organizations as well as how organizations can apply for OTS grants.

Weisberg and Hayes talk about new issues and challenges with DUI/DUID trends.  They both agree driving under the influence of drugs is the most pressing challenge.  Hayes adds that the legalization of marijuana also poses challenges to cases of driving under the influence of marijuana.  Weisberg then explains how OTS sets mission priorities and counter measures to different issues impacting road safety. 

Weisberg shares what outreach OTS is currently conducting -including PSA campaigns and safety programs such as Go Safely. He also shares other resources available through OTS on driving safety information.

Hayes and Weisberg close by giving their key takeaways from this discussion.

RESOURCES:

https://www.ots.ca.gov/

OTS on social media Facebook @CaliforniaOTS and Instagram and Twitter @ots_ca.

Title – Cold Case: Examining the Late 1970s Rape And Murder of Sharon Wilcoxson (Pt. 1) - Justice Journal Episode 13

Description: Examination of the late 1970s cold case rape/murder of Sharon Wilcoxson that unfolded over 30 years.  Guests are Sharon’s sister, DA Anne Marie Schubert, a DA investigator and two retired law enforcement investigators who worked the case.

Show Notes: Twenty-year-old Sharon Wilcoxson was raped and murdered in the late 1970s in Carmichael, CA.  Sharon’s sister, Linda Thompson, tells us about Sharon – what she was like growing up and as a young woman.  Linda recounts how and when she and her family learned of Sharon’s death, and what the initial impact was on her and her family over the days and weeks that followed.

Retired Sacramento County Sheriff’s Detective Ray Biondi takes listeners back to that night, walking through the crime scene.  He talks about the initial suspect he believed killed Sharon, and the challenges he faced in finding enough evidence to make an arrest.  There was also a 1981 murder that ended-up being connected to Sharon’s case.

Then, the case is handed to the District Attorney’s new Cold Case Unit, headed up by now District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert.  Anne Marie explains when and why she created the new unit, why it’s so important for cases like Sharon’s and what made her choose this case as one of the first cases the Cold Case Unit pursued.  DA Investigator Ron Garverick talks about joining the DA’s Cold Case Unit talks through the process and timeline of his investigation– what the investigation involved, what was revealed during the investigation and challenges he faced.  Anne Marie talks through preparing the case and the result.

Linda shares her thoughts on the use of DNA technology in her sister’s case, and what it provided her family.  Anne Marie, Ray and Ron reflect on what stuck with them about Sharon’s case, and lasting changes or advances came out of their pursuit of justice for Sharon and her family.

Linda closes with how she and her family are doing today and what she wants listeners to know most about Sharon.

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Tags – True Crime, District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science Cold Case, Forensic DNA, Forensic Science, Sharon Wilcoxson, Pete Willover, Ray Biondi

Description: Discussion on the success the local criminal justice system has had in holding jury trials in the age of the pandemic.  Guests are Sacramento Superior Court Presiding Judge Russell Hom, Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, Chief Assistant Public Defender Amanda Benson. 

Show Notes:  A brief timeline/explanation of the COVID-19 Emergency Court Orders was provided. 

March 19, 2020 – Sacramento County Issues Public Health Order

March 20, 2020 – Sacramento Superior Court orders temporary court closures

March 23, 2020 – Sacramento California Supreme Court Justice Cantil-Sakauye issues a statewide court order suspending all jury trials for 60 days

May 26, 2020 - Sacramento Superior Court resumed two criminal jury trials that were suspended due to court closure

June 15, 2020 - Sacramento Superior Court resumes jury trials

Guests share what their organizations were doing behind the scenes - both individually and working together – to prepare to operate under the first Court Order on March 20, 2020 and second Court Order on March 23, 2020.  This includes what to do about bail, in-custody defendants time rights, filing news cases, collaboration involved in developing process, etc.

They then discuss the current state of court operations and how they are successfully resuming jury trials while following COVID-19 safety precautions at the courthouse.  The group shares how their offices worked individually and together to plan and implement necessary changes. 

They address some of the challenges of holding jury trials during COVID-19, and some positive aspects that came about with this new way of operating.  

They reflect on why they think Sacramento County has been able to conduct so many trials under these unprecedented circumstances as well as some ideas of how to improve the COVID-19 justice system even further.

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Description: A discussion on the current state of hate crimes, the challenge with underreporting, the impact on victims and the targeted groups and what is being done today to protect the community against these crimes.  Guests are US Attorney McGregor Scott, District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp, Supervising Deputy DA Thien Ho, President of the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region Deborah Gonzalez and SALAM Islamic Center Chairman Waseem Bawa.

Show Notes:  The conversation starts with the difference between a hate activity vs. a hate crime.  If people are not sure if something is a hate crime, they should still report it and let law enforcement make that determination.

The group discusses the state of hate crimes today.  Faith leaders talk about and security measures that are now needed at houses of worship and faith-based events, and the pursuit of grants to fund additional security.

The topic turns to the impact hate crimes has on its specific victims and the targeted groups that are attacked – which is unique to hate crimes.  It’s a very personal crime against who a person is, a part of their identity. 

The Hate Crimes Task Force is working to bring law enforcement and community groups together to share information and protect the region from organized and individual (lone) hate crime attacks.   Several examples are given of how law enforcement is informing and protecting the faith community and the direct, two-way open communication the Task Force has with faith and other community organizations. 

The US Attorney’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office have specialized Hate Crimes Units.  Some Sacramento County stats and a fully adjudicated hate crimes case example was shared.

The group talks about the most significant challenge with hate crimes – underreporting.  Everyone agrees many hate crimes are not reported for various reasons.  They believe the key to overcoming this issue is educational outreach among faith and other community groups.

The US Attorney’s Office, District Attorney’s Office and Sacramento FBI Office all have community programs that help to educate the community about their constitutional rights and protections as well as their responsibility as a community member.  

Resource Links:

https://www.justice.gov/usao-edca

http://www.sacda.org/

https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sacramento

https://www.salamcenter.org/

http://jewishsac.org/

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal Podcast, Hate Crimes, US Attorney, McGregor Scott, Federal Bureau of Investigations, FBI, Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region, SALAM Islamic Center, Hate Crimes Task Force

Description: How the Community Prosecution Unit partnered with local public agencies to create a Memorandum of Understanding with Motel 6 to resolve crime and quality of life issues while also investing in crime prevention and helping victims.

Show Notes: Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Natalia Luna and community prosecutors Deputy District Attorney Ron Linthicum and Deputy District Attorney Joy Smiley discuss the initial reactions and plan of action to resolve issues at Motel 6 properties throughout the city and county of Sacramento.  They discuss how the idea of entering into an MOU come about, and the collaborative process in planning and detailing out a proposed agreement. 

The specific details and conditions of the MOU are outlined with examples of the types of changes they involved to meet the requirements. They also emphasized a significant and very unique aspect of the MOU, which is Motel 6’s giving back to the community through a financial investment in local community-based organizations that provide youth intervention services and assist victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.

Natalia, Ron and Joy share the results of the MOU - both specific to the agreement and their expectation of changes that needed to be made as well as unexpected benefits and additional positive changes it created with Motel 6 and within the community.

They all agreed the MOU was a great success and a win-win for all parties involved and the community at large.  The MOU was successfully determined with Motel 6 enhancing its operational practices and a total of $750,000 distributed to local nonprofits. 

They close by sharing their personal insight and thoughts on this very unique and collaborative approach to resolving neighborhood crime.

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Description: Crime Lab Director Chip Pollock talks about criminalists (their education, training, experience), responsibilities criminalists have outside the lab, the lab’s state-of-the-art equipment and how it is used, how real the Hollywood version of CSI and forensic science is to true life, how those interested in the field can start on that path and the Crime Lab Youth Shadow Day. 

Show Notes: Chip explains how criminalists are assigned to various sections of the lab,

and often cross train in the different sections.  This allows them to be flexible in the work they can perform, cover areas when needed as well as add to their training, experience and knowledge.  There is a training program they go through along with a competency test, mock case and mock trial.   

Aside from science and analysis work, criminalists provide outside training and crime scene workshops for law enforcement agencies.  They also train deputy district attorneys on aspects of forensic science to give them a better understanding of how forensic analysis is conducted and understand some of the science behind it.  Criminalists also often testify in court.

The lab is known for having state-of-the-art equipment, including a machine that performs elemental analysis of glass.  This allows criminalists to compare glass and glass fragments to determine if the elemental composition is indistinguishable from one another or if they came from the same manufacturer with the same chemical and physical composition.  It’s the only lab in the western Unites States and one of about 12 labs nationwide with this equipment and expertise.  This equipment was used in a 2003 double-murder case in Galt.  The suspect used a bat to smash in the victims’ sliding glass door.  Fragments of glass taken from the bat were compared to the glass sliding door, which was a match.   

Another equipment example is the Crime Scene Unit’s 3-D laser scanner, which scans a crime scene using a high-speed whirling laser that measures points of distance.  A digital camera then photographs the crime scene and stitches the photos together with the measurements.  This technology documents and essentially freezes the crime scene in time.  This equipment was used in

the 2012 murder case of 13-year-old Jessica Funk-Haslam who was found in a baseball field in Rosemont.  

Some of the Hollywood version of CSI is true to life, just accelerated and more dramatic.  The real CSI can never get a case done between two commercials, and criminalists are not investigators – they work behind the scenes.   

For those interested in forensic science, it will require a degree in the science field (chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry), and California requires additional chemistry courses.  Chip recommends doing an internship as well.  The District Attorney’s Crime Lab has college and graduate internships.  The Crime Lab also held a successful Youth Shadow Day that gives students a hands-on experience/idea of what’s it like to be a criminalist.

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Tags - District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, True Crime, Justice Journal, Trace Evidence, Crime Lab, Crime Scene Investigation, CSI

Description: Discussion with two longtime DUI/DUID prevention partner organizations Arrive Alive, CA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving about prevention programs, focusing on the Real DUI Court in Schools program, the importance of reaching children early and the importance of partnerships.  

Show Notes:  Guests Arrive Alive CA CEO Angela Webb, MADD Victim Services Specialist Rhonda Campbell and Lead Deputy District Attorney (DDA) Gregory Hayes introduce themselves.

Hayes explains his current role related to DUI cases and the DUI/DUID prosecution and Education Outreach program.  Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

Hayes states current DUI penal codes. Hayes, Webb and Campbell talk about the scope of the DUI/DUID problem with local and national stats.

Webb and Campbell talk about the importance of reaching kids early – elementary and middle school – to shape their ideas and provide accurate information about DUI/DUID.  They explain high school is when they act on their ideas/beliefs.  Webb explains the Real DUI Court in Schools program and gives stats on the number of students reached since the start of the program. Hayes and Campbell talk about their involvement in the program.  Webb, Campbell and Hayes share the feedback they have received about Real DUI Court in Schools and why they believe the program is so effective among students.

Campbell talks about other MADD programs, how they work and why they are effective.

Webb and Campbell talk about the challenges, changes and successes they have experienced over their time working in prevention.  They give insight into the importance of partnerships and who they work with to get the message across to different audiences.  They also share what keeps them motivated and energized to continue their work.

Hayes, Campbell and Webb close the discussion by giving advice, resources and key takeaways. 

RESOURCES:

https://madd.org/

https://www.arrivealiveca.com/

https://www.sacda.org/in-the-community/community-programs/

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Description: Brother to Brother Co-Founder Mervin Brookins along with District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert and Sacramento Police Chief Daniel Hahn talk about the trust and partnership they have developed, and how they are working together to address public safety challenges, improve the lives of individuals and create healthier, safer neighborhoods throughout Sacramento.

Show Notes: Mervin starts by telling listeners about himself and Brother to Brother, including his background as well as how Brother to Brother helps to restore lives, rebuild neighborhoods and bring the community together.

Chief Hahn and Anne Marie discuss how they got to know Mervin and how their relationship with Mervin developed into one of mutual trust and respect.  They give examples of how Mervin works with the DA’s Office and the Sacramento Police Department to support each other’s efforts to re-build and improve the lives of individuals, and improve the safety and well-being of everyone in the Sacramento community.  The three then discuss how their partnership between Brother to Brother and the DA/law enforcement impacts their role and goals in serving the community, and how important these kinds of relationships are to both Mervin and public safety agencies. 

The conversation continues to discuss challenges each organization has faced and success stories of how their partnership allowed them to address the challenges and keep moving forward.   The key is they work with each other versus against each other for the greater good, especially those who are at-risk or underserved. 

Mervin talks about how he informs the community about Brother to Brother and the work they do, which is primarily by word-of-mouth within the community. 

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Sacramento Police Department, Chief Daniel Hahn, Mervin Brookins, Brother to Brother, Neighborhood Wellness Foundation

Description: How the cold case prosecution for the 1980 murders of two UC Davis students unfolded over 30+ years.  Part 1 gives background and history of the case - who the victims were, what happened to them - and takes you through the early investigation from 1980 to 2002. 

Show Notes: The lead prosecutor, Dawn Bladet, and investigator, Ron Garverick, discuss the cold case prosecution of Richard Hirschfield.  In 1980, Hirschfield murdered UC Davis students John Riggins and Sabrina Gonsalves – often called the UC Davis Sweetheart Murders.

Bladet and Garverick set the scene of what the town of Davis and Sacramento region was like in 1980, and tell us about John and Sabrina.  The discussion goes back in time, describing the evening John and Sabrina went missing and the events that soon followed - from the families reporting them missing, to locating the van they were driving, to the discovery of their bodies and how that discovery affected the Riggins and Gonsalves families. 

Bladet and Garverick talk through the twists and turns the case took giving the history and general timeline of the investigation, including the pursuit of the Hunt Group who were charged in Yolo County for the murders.  On the eve of their trial, they were exonerated by DNA. 

This episode ends at the point where DNA taken from a blanket at the crime scene gets a DNA hit in 2002 to an unknown suspect, turning the case in a completely new direction. 

This case was featured on 48 Hours (https://www.cbsnews.com/video/the-sweetheart-murders-3/).

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Tags: 

District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, UC Davis, Sweetheart Murders, Justice, Capital Murder, Death Penalty, True Crime, Justice Journal

Description:  Discussion on the changes to the jury trial process during the COVID-19 pandemic.  We discuss the impact on the entire process from confirming and conducting the trial to sentencing.  Guests are Principal Deputy District Attorney Nancy Cochrane, Deputy District Attorney Kristen Andersen, and Deputy District Attorney Ryan Roebuck.

Show notes:  T

This episode is part of a series highlighting jury trials that have been successfully conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nancy, Kristen, and Ryan introduce themselves and explain their respective units and roles in the office.  They also discuss the types of cases they are assigned to prosecute.

Then each attorney discusses the changes to the jury trial process by discussing trials they successfully conducted which involved child abuse, at a Sacramento County, and a residential burglary. 

Nancy explains the pretrial process, and how presenting victim testimony was very different during this time.  Kristen describes how different the jury selection process is under COVID.  Ryan discusses case presentation and how they safely handle evidence and trial exhibits.

The discussion closes with silver linings, including how jurors and victims stepped up during this time to make sure the administration of justice could continue.  The DA’s also touted measures the Court took to keep everyone safe.

Resources:

Press release: https://www.sacda.org/2020/08/04/defendant-convicted-of-sexually-assaulting-multiple-children-2/

Press release: https://www.sacda.org/2020/08/26/defendant-sentenced-for-shooting-sheriffs-deputy/

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Description: An examination of the unsolved 2011 double-murder of two Sikh grandfathers in Elk Grove, suspected to be a hate crime.  Guests are DA Anne Marie Schubert, DA Investigator Kevin Papineau, who was the lead detective on the case while at the Elk Grove Police Department, and Elk Grove Unified School District Board Member Bobbie Singh Allen.

Show Notes:  Guests begin by talking about Elk Grove – what kind of town is it and was historically. Kevin then talks about what happened the day of the murders - one shot and killed and one wounded, who died later in the hospital.  The shooting occurred on a Friday afternoon, during rush hour next to a busy freeway.   

Kevin and Bobbie talk about the victims – two Sikh grandfathers Gurmej Singh Atwal and Surinder Singh who were walking buddies. The guests explain the initial impact the murders had on the Sikh community and the entire community as well as region as a whole.

Kevin talks about the initial investigation - what was known initially, were there initial suspects, did they suspect the hate crime motive, were there witnesses, what evidence was found, etc.  He also explains the challenges in the investigation – lack of eyewitnesses and credible tips.

At close to the one-year mark after the murders, Kevin describes the media event that was held to keep the case I the public mind and possibly bring in new leads.  A reward is being offered at $55,000 or as high as $60,000 at this point for tips leading to an arrest.  The discussion turns to what the victims’ family and community felt as the investigation continued without an arrest.

In the meantime, a new park has been built in Elk Grove in honor of Gurmej Singh Atwal and Surinder Singh.  Bobbie talks about the significance of the City of Elk Grove dedicating this park to Atwal and Singh and what it means for the community.

The guests remain hopeful there will be an arrest made one day and the families will receive justice.  They all believe the key to a break in the case is someone who knows something will finally say something…  Kevin also believes someone who knows about the truck described as being at the scene of the shooting will also be central to identifying the shooter.

The conversation closes with encouraging anyone who wants to find out more information about this case, or anyone who has information they want to report to contact the Elk Grove Police Department. 

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Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal Podcast, Hate Crimes, Sikh Faith, Elk Grove, Gurmej Singh Atwal, Surinder Singh, DA Investigator Kevin Papineau, Elk Grove Unified School District Board Member Bobbie Singh Allen, Unsolved Murders

Description: A discussion on the issue of human trafficking – where it happens, how it happens, who are the victims – and what is being done to prosecute traffickers, help victims, educate the community and prevent future victims.  Guests are Sacramento County Deputy District Attorney Danielle Abildgaard, Investigator Annette Fucles, Victim Advocate Beatrice (Bea) Lavrov and Sacramento Police Detective Jason Collins.

Show Notes:  Danielle explains the difference between human trafficking, pimping and pandering – how human trafficking is defined.  Bea and Annette explain how that is different from smuggling. 

Jason clarifies that human trafficking isn’t the way it’s portrayed in movies – victims are usually kept local vs. being kidnapped and transported far away.  Human trafficking does not need to involve a form of travel, transportation, or movement across state or national borders.

They talk about some red flags and indicators that signify a possible human trafficking situation.  They discuss where human trafficking occurs, how victims are targeted and recruited and who the victims are – some common traits.  They explain why victims of trafficking don’t run away to escape or ask for help.  Most victims of human trafficking do not self-identify as a victim of a crime and do not ask for help immediately.  There is a special collaborative court designed to provide wrap-around services and programs to help victims get out of the life.  There is also a similar collaborative court for children victims of sex trafficking, specialized to help with trauma and other unique needs.

The conversation also addresses labor trafficking and the difference in how those victims are targeted and kept in trafficking situations.

The group shares what is being done to prevent human trafficking and help victims through the Sacramento Together Anti-Human Trafficking coalition.  Efforts include cracking down on the demand side while reaching out to victims and offering them services.  The coalition also helps build stronger cases and make connections to other cases in other jurisdictions.  The coalition also works to raise awareness among the public.

The group then talks about the unique needs of the human trafficking victims and the important role of the victim advocate working closely with Annette and law enforcement.  Bea talks about the challenges and rewards working with human trafficking victims, and how it is important to provide the victim with continuity and build trust with them. 

If someone believes they are witnessing a trafficking situation, call 911.  If someone wants to report a non-emergency possible human trafficking situation or suspected victim/trafficker – call the human trafficking hotline at 888.373.7888.

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Tags - District Attorney, Justice Journal Podcast, Human Trafficking, Sex Trafficking, Labor Trafficking, Pimping, Pandering, Victim Advocate

Description: How the cold case prosecution for the 1980 murders of two UC Davis students unfolded over 30+ years.  Part 2 picks up with the 2002 DNA hit to an unknown suspect, Richard Hirschfield, the new investigation that followed and preparing the case for a capital murder trial. 

Show Notes: The big break in the case came in 2002 when a DNA sample from a blanket at the crime scene provided a DNA hit to Richard Hirschfield.  Getting the DNA hit was just the beginning.  Bladet and Garverick talk about the investigation and building the case from that point. 

Hirschfield was someone who was never on the radar, an unknown suspect.  They share what they quickly learned about who Hirschfield was, about his life, connections to the Sacramento region and his past criminal history. 

Garverick explains the process of putting the many pieces of the investigation together - like a puzzle - and filling the holes.  Bladet explains the trial preparation and challenges with this cold case, including 80 banker boxes full of discovery (documents/materials), witnesses passing away, memories fading and the evidence chain of custody over many decades -among others. 

This case was featured on 48 Hours (https://www.cbsnews.com/video/the-sweetheart-murders-3/).

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Tags: District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, UC Davis, Sweetheart Murders, Justice, Capital Murder, Death Penalty, True Crime, Justice Journal

Description: The Elected DAs of Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and Santa Clara counties and Peace Over Violence on how they are working in innovative ways to continue serving and protecting victims of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse and sexual assault during unprecedented times.

Show Notes:  Sacramento County DA Anne Marie Schubert hosts this discussion with Alameda County DA Nancy O’Malley, Los Angeles County DA Jackie Lacey, San Diego County DA Summer Stephan and Santa Clara County DA Jeff Rosen, and is later joined by Peace Over Violence Executive Director Patricia (Patti) Giggans.   

DA O’Malley begins by providing background on Alameda County, her professional background and serving as president of the California District Attorneys Association (CDAA).  She then shares some different and innovative ways her office continues to engage and serve victims, including through their Human Trafficking Task Force and Family Justice Center.  DA Lacey talks about LA County and some innovative ways they are also working to reach and protect victims, including through their “Behind Closed Doors” program.  DA Lacey also shares a personal story about domestic violence.  DA Rosen talks about how they are able to continue office operations, the unique demographics of Santa Clara County and their hate crimes PSA aimed at addressing Asians being targeted in their community.  Rosen also discusses innovative ways they are serving victims, including a soon-to-be launched app for victims to receive notifications and information.  DA Stephan talks about San Diego County and how her office has shifted to more use of technology to continue operations and meet timelines.  She also talks about new and innovative ways they are working to protect victims, including the elderly who are at nursing homes and children during school closures. 

DA O’Malley closes part one of the discussion by talking about a domestic violence, child abuse and elder abuse public awareness campaign and partnership with California district attorneys through CDAA and the California Grocers Association.   

Part two begins with DA Lacey introducing Peace Over Violence Executive Director Patricia (Patti) Giggans.  Patti talks about the Peace Over Violence organization, including its work and mission.  She provides the origins and history of Denim Day, the importance of raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault and how they are still holding a virtual Denim Day. 

DOWNLOAD & SHARE SACRAMENTO COUNTY CHILD ABUSE RESOURCE SHEET

For more information on Peace Over Violence and Denim Day, visit PeaceOverViolence.org. 

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Description: Discussion on Elder Abuse crimes, kinds of cases the DA’s Office sees, the role of the DA victim advocate in these cases and some tips alerts to help detect and prevent abuse and becoming a victim of common scams.  Guests are Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Paul Durenberger, Deputy District Attorney Frederick (Fritz) Gotha, Victim Advocate Bridgid Moffett Yeo.

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves and explains their role within the office and the Elder Abuse Unit.

Paul and Frederick explain who would be considered a victim of elder abuse and the different type of abuse.  They then talk about the DA’s Elder Abuse Unit and how prevalent these cases are within Sacramento County - what kinds of cases they see most often, and who are often the abusers.

Bridgid talks about how she works with Elder Abuse victims and how she and Frederick work together.   They talk about the most challenging, or complicated, cases they handle.  They also share examples of cases that had a good result from both the victim and prosecution standpoint.

 Frederick talks about the current laws to protect elders, and if he thinks they should be changed and adjusted or if there is a need for new laws.

Paul talks about the Elder Death Review Team (EDRT).   There are unfortunately some cases of suspicious deaths of elder and dependent adults.  Paul, explains how EDRT started, who is involved and the purpose of the review team.  He then shares some of the findings from the most recent review and report.

The group then provides advice for victims as well as warnings for potential victims in terms of what to do if they are being victimized and how to protect themselves.  They talk about some common scams that target seniors, and how they can protect themselves from being scammed.   They also talk about important resources available to anyone who needs help or would like more information on Elder Abuse.

They end with closing thoughts on Elder Abuse crimes and its victims. 

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 Tags - District Attorney, Elder Abuse, Dependent Adult Abuse, Justice Journal Podcast, Victim Advocate, Elder Death Review Team

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert and Assistant Chief Thien Ho talk about the impact of COVID-19 on the criminal justice system and how the DA’s Office is adapting to ensure justice continues to be served while balancing public health with public safety.

Show Notes:  DA Schubert starts by introducing the new Justice and Community & Relations Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Thien Ho, followed by Thien’s own introduction.

DA Schubert and Assistant Chief Thien Ho give their personal and professional insight and thoughts on this unprecedented time in our world, nation and local community – including as it relates to the criminal justice system and in all aspects of our society.

The conversation turns to the impact of COVID-19 and the public health emergency on the criminal justice system specifically.   DA Schubert and Assistant Chief Thien Ho talk through the current changes to the criminal justice system, followed by what the DA’s Office has done to successfully adapt to these changes while balancing public health with public safety.  They talk about the importance and need for these changes and how things are working with this new way of doing business.

They close by a message they have to members of this community to ensure that the criminal justice system continues to serve justice during this crisis while balancing public health with public safety.

For alerts on price gouging and looting during a state of emergency as well as the public health order, visit our website at sacda.org.  For the latest COVID-19 information and status updates visit Sacramento County’s website at saccounty.net.

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Tags - District Attorney, Justice Journal Podcast, COVID-19, Coronavirus, Anne Marie Schubert

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert, Sacramento County Board of Education Trustee Karina Talamantes, Dr. Tiffany Heckendorn from UC Davis Health, Dr. Virginia Barrow, and Dr. Clarisse Glen from Kaiser Permanente and local high school students discuss the issue of youth vaping from each of their perspectives.

Show Notes:  Anne Marie opens with why she felt it was so important to talk about this issue and the current laws on youth vaping. 

Guests talk about why they think vaping is so appealing and widespread among youth, and the reaction to this crisis among public safety officials, school administrators, health care professionals and students. 

The discussion includes how students can vape on school campuses without detection and how school districts are working to address the issue.   There is a large focus on the alarming health impacts of vaping on youth.  Doctors from UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente share their medical expertise and insight on how and why youth are so severely affected by vaping.  They also share their concerns and challenges of youth vaping as well as what they have seen and experienced in their health care systems.  The series ends with three local high school students sharing their experiences and insight into why their peers vape.

Each episode ends with guests sharing what they think can and should be done to get youth to stop vaping and prevent new vapers as well as closing messages.

Resources: 

Kaiser Permanente’s “Don’t Buy the Lie” campaign is a yearly program that partners with high schools to have students come up with marketing materials for Kaiser’s teen focused anti-smoking campaigns. For more information, visit: https://kpdbtl.com/.  #StoptheVape

Tags: Justice Journal, Anne Marie Schubert, District Attorney, Sacramento County Board of Education, UC David Health, Kaiser Permanente, THC

Description:How the DA’s Office and law enforcement work with businesses and residents along the Stockton Boulevard corridor to resolve and deter quality of life crimes.   Guests are the Partnership’s Executive Director Frank Louie, DA Community Prosecutor Leslie Kolb and Sacramento County Sheriff’s Deputy Johnny Lee. 

Show Notes: Frank Louie gives his personal and professional background and explains what the Stockton Boulevard Partnership is, its mission/purpose and how it works.  Leslie and John talk about their backgrounds and roles with their agencies.  Frank, Leslie and John then discuss how they all work together and some of the common problems they address – including homelessness, prostitution and human trafficking.

They share a few examples of quality of life and business issues they have been able resolve and other successes they have experienced.  They credit their success to their unique partnership and having everyone they need at the table to address various issues and to proactively prevent new ones.  This partnership benefits Frank, Leslie and Johnny in their roles – allowing them to work more effectively and efficiently, making a more significant positive impact on the community.

They talk about new trends in crime, crime prevention, changes in businesses and how they operate, other aspects that have recently emerged along Stockton Boulevard, and how they are preparing to address them.   They also share future projects and goals they have for near future.

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Tags - District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Stockton Boulevard Partnership, Community Prosecution, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, POP Officer, Problem-Oriented Policing.

Description: Invictus Youth Foundation Founder, President & CEO Viliami Tuivai (Coach V) talks to Supervising Deputy District Attorney Rochelle Beardsley about his personal story and his passion for inspiring and mentoring at-risk youth through the foundation’s free programs.   

 Show Notes:  Coach V talks about how he and his family immigrated to the Unites States from the island of Tonga.  He shares growing up as an at-risk youth with little money - on free/reduced lunch - in a community with a lot of gangs. 

Through his love of sports, Coach V turned challenges into opportunities which has led to the success he has achieved today.  Coach V to college football player to NCAA football coach.  He is now a life leadership and business coach, a motivational speaker and radio host.

The focus of the conversation is Coach V’s passion project - the Invictus Youth Foundation, which he founded and serves as president and CEO.  The foundation’s mission is to inspire and teach kids life principles and life lessons to be successful as well as enjoy peace, happiness, fulfillment and love in life.  The foundation is a 100% volunteer-based organization that provides free youth sports camps -  football, basketball, soccer, snowboarding/skiing - and a flight training program. 

With COVID-19, Coach V did not want to take any chances and put health and safety first.  He decided to shut down all programs this year until he is sure it is safe to resume programs.  As of now, Coach V believes they may be able to start up again in February or March with their snowboard/ski camp.  Future plans include expanding camps to Hawaii and San Diego.  Once kids are back in school, Coach V plans to have camps back up since he sees that as verification it is safe at that time.

For updates on when programs will start again after COVID-19, visit the Invictus Youth Foundation website or Facebook page.  There will also be information on upcoming fundraising events, including a potential golf tournament in October, a banquet and possible concert fundraisers.

Resources:

https://www.invictusyouthfoundation.org/

https://www.facebook.com/invictusfoundation/

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Description: A personal story of losing a loved one to a DUI offender decades ago, the lasting impacts of that loss, how the case was handled at that time, the progress made with current DUI cases, what more can be done and how MADD and the DA’s Office is working to help victims and prevent more DUI tragedies. 

Show Notes:  Guests Rhonda Campbell and Lead Deputy District Attorney Gregory Hayes introduce themselves and their current roles related to DUI cases, victim advocacy and prevention efforts. 

Rhonda begins the discussion by sharing her personal story – starting with what her family was like 40 years ago, who her sister Irene was, what she was like and what Rhonda remembers most about Irene.  She then talks through the day 12-year-old Irene was killed by a four-time repeat DUI offender. Rhonda shares how the crash happened, what happened to Irene, how her parents were told and ultimately how her parents had to tell Rhonda that her little sister was gone.   

Rhonda explains what happened in the criminal case against the DUI offender and how the offender’s rights were put ahead of the rights of Rhonda’s family.  Deputy DA Greg Hayes then explains current DUI laws and what charges/sentences the offender in Irene’s case could have faced under current DUI laws.  He also explains the progress made with victim advocacy and victims’ rights.

Rhonda talks about the lasting impact Irene’s death has had on her, her family and the entire community – even four decades later.  Her way of honoring Irene’s memory is to dedicate her life to preventing other families from experiencing the same tragedy

DDA Hayes and Rhonda close the discussion by sharing information about the many DUI prevention efforts being made by the DA’s Office and MADD, including a number of programs for high school students as well as programs for adults.

Irene Ruth Harris

RESOURCES:

https://madd.org/

https://www.arrivealiveca.com/

https://www.sacda.org/in-the-community/community-programs/

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Description: How the cold case prosecution for the 1980 murders of two UC Davis students unfolded over 30+ years.  Part 4 concludes with the sentencing phase – the sentence, reaction and impact on the victims’ families and final thoughts from Bladet and Garverick on the case.

Show Notes: The court process was not over after the jury returned its verdict.  In capital cases, there is a sentencing phase to determine if the death penalty will be imposed.  Bladet and Garverick discuss what happens in this phase – which focuses on the lives taken and the loss and pain it left for the families and the community. 

This is the first opportunity to tell the jury who John and Sabrina were, what kind of people they were – what they aspired to be and the potential they had to make a real difference in the world.  This is also the first time family members take the stand.  Garverick works on showing how Hirschfield is deserving of the death penalty through his criminal history and the wake of victims he has left in his path.  Learn how the defense tried to make a case that Hirschfield should be spared the death penalty.  When the sentence is handed down, Bladet recounts how the Riggins and Gonsalves families felt about the sentence. 

With the case closed, we hear how the Riggins and Gonsalves families were impacted through the years to this day.  Bladet talks about the personal relationships she developed with the families over the years and still maintains today.  Garverick recounts what he took away from his experience on this case, as they state it is one that will stay with them.  This podcast episode series ends with how “justice delayed is still justice served.”

This case was featured on 48 Hours (https://www.cbsnews.com/video/the-sweetheart-murders-3/).

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Keywords - District Attorney, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science, UC Davis, Sweetheart Murders, Justice, Capital Murder, Death Penalty, True Crime, Justice Journal

Description: Discussion on the Animal Cruelty Unit & Regional Task Force and the involvement of the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (SPCA) and a leading local veterinarian, examples of animal cruelty cases and the importance of educating the community on animal cruelty and how the public can help reduce and prevent animal cruelty.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Hilary Bagley- Franzoia, Sacramento SPCA CEO Kenn Altine and Dr. Cheryl Scott from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves, their backgrounds and their personal passion and commitment to protecting animals.

Guests talk about how they all work together on the Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force and the changes it has made to the investigation and prosecution of cases.  This includes the SPCA’s role in caring for the abused animals in criminal cases and offering rewards to help lead to arrests.

Dr. Scott shares what types of cruelty, or suspected cruelty, she has seen come through the veterinary clinic and how she dealt with suspected cruelty as a mandated reporter.  She discusses ongoing types of animal cruelty and neglect and recent trends in trauma inflicted and the condition of animals.

The group also discusses existing laws for animal cruelty cases, examples of animal cruelty cases and consequences for the offenders and the unique challenges with animal cruelty cases.  They also provide insight into what they feel is key to preventing animal cruelty and neglect, including educating children and the general public about how to properly treat and care for animals and what do if they suspect or witness animal cruelty and how to report it. 

Guests also stress the proven and prevalent link between animal cruelty and violence against people with statistics and examples of cases – many involving domestic violence. 

They close with the importance of continuing the accomplishments and progress made by the Animal Cruelty Unit and Task Force.   

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Description: Discussion on the Animal Cruelty Unit & Regional Task Force and the involvement of the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (SPCA) and a leading local veterinarian, examples of animal cruelty cases and the importance of educating the community on animal cruelty and how the public can help reduce and prevent animal cruelty.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Hilary Bagley- Franzoia, Sacramento SPCA CEO Kenn Altine and Dr. Cheryl Scott from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves, their backgrounds and their personal passion and commitment to protecting animals.

Guests talk about how they all work together on the Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force and the changes it has made to the investigation and prosecution of cases.  This includes the SPCA’s role in caring for the abused animals in criminal cases and offering rewards to help lead to arrests.

Dr. Scott shares what types of cruelty, or suspected cruelty, she has seen come through the veterinary clinic and how she dealt with suspected cruelty as a mandated reporter.  She discusses ongoing types of animal cruelty and neglect and recent trends in trauma inflicted and the condition of animals.

The group also discusses existing laws for animal cruelty cases, examples of animal cruelty cases and consequences for the offenders and the unique challenges with animal cruelty cases.  They also provide insight into what they feel is key to preventing animal cruelty and neglect, including educating children and the general public about how to properly treat and care for animals and what do if they suspect or witness animal cruelty and how to report it. 

Guests also stress the proven and prevalent link between animal cruelty and violence against people with statistics and examples of cases – many involving domestic violence. 

They close with the importance of continuing the accomplishments and progress made by the Animal Cruelty Unit and Task Force.  

Follow us @SacCountyDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and find us on YouTube.

Description: Discussion on the rise of hate crimes/hate incidents against the Asian American Pacific Islander community, the impact on victims and the community at large, and what is being done to address this type of hate in the Sacramento community.  Guests are California Assemblyman Jim Cooper, Executive Director of Asian Resources Inc. and Councilwoman Stephanie Nguyen and Assistant Chief Deputy DA Thienvu Ho.

Show Notes:  DA Anne Marie Schubert introduces the podcast and the importance of the topic. Guests introduce themselves by providing personal/professional background information and their current roles.

Assistant Chief Thien Ho explains what a hate crime is and is not under the penal code, and the difference between a hate crime and hate incident. He goes on to talk about the Hate Crimes Unit and what types of hate crimes are filed as a felony or misdemeanor. He then explains the hate crimes case numbers have not increased in Sacramento, but that is most certainly due to significant under-reporting.

Assemblyman Jim Cooper and Executive Director/Councilwoman Stephanie Nguyen talk about the reported numbers not being accurate and the problem of under-reporting in the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community - especially among the immigrant/refugee population.  They go on to share what they are hearing from the AAPI community.  They are very fearful.  They are afraid to leave their houses to go shopping or be out too late.  They talk about how it’s impacting the larger community, including AAPI owned businesses. 

The group shares their experience with the non-AAPI community showing support and standing with the AAPI community – offering hope that something good will come out of the hate and better things are to come out of this dark time. 

The group agrees part of the solution to ending hate crimes is to have stronger consequences for committing these crimes.  Assemblyman Cooper talks about a bill (AB 266) he is putting forth which will strengthen and increase penalties for some hate crimes.

Executive Director/Councilwoman Stephanie Nguyen talks about how Asian Resources is working to protect and assist members of the AAPI community and what assistance they can provide.

The discussion ends with what needs to be done to end hate crimes.  They agree that hate crimes must first be reported and aggressively prosecuted with significant consequences to deter others from committing hate crimes.  There also needs to be more community outreach and education on the issue to let people know how to report suspected hate crimes, the importance of reporting as well as services and resources available to them.

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Tags – Justice Journal Podcast, District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, Assemblyman Jim Cooper, Executive Director Asian Resources Inc. Stephanie Nguyen, Councilwoman Stephanie Nguyen, Assistant Chief Deputy District Attorney Thienvu Ho, Hate Crimes, Asian American Pacific Islander, AAPI, COVID-19, Coronavirus, Hate Incidents

Title – Cold Case: Examining the Late 1970s Rape And Murder of Sharon Wilcoxson (Pt. 2) - Justice Journal Episode 14

Description: Examination of the late 1970s cold case rape/murder of Sharon Wilcoxson that unfolded over 30 years.  Guests are Sharon’s sister, DA Anne Marie Schubert, a DA investigator and two retired law enforcement investigators who worked the case.

Show Notes: Twenty-year-old Sharon Wilcoxson was raped and murdered in the late 1970s in Carmichael, CA.  Sharon’s sister, Linda Thompson, tells us about Sharon – what she was like growing up and as a young woman.  Linda recounts how and when she and her family learned of Sharon’s death, and what the initial impact was on her and her family over the days and weeks that followed.

Retired Sacramento County Sheriff’s Detective Ray Biondi takes listeners back to that night, walking through the crime scene.  He talks about the initial suspect he believed killed Sharon, and the challenges he faced in finding enough evidence to make an arrest.  There was also a 1981 murder that ended-up being connected to Sharon’s case.

Then, the case is handed to the District Attorney’s new Cold Case Unit, headed up by now District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert.  Anne Marie explains when and why she created the new unit, why it’s so important for cases like Sharon’s and what made her choose this case as one of the first cases the Cold Case Unit pursued.  DA Investigator Ron Garverick talks about joining the DA’s Cold Case Unit talks through the process and timeline of his investigation– what the investigation involved, what was revealed during the investigation and challenges he faced.  Anne Marie talks through preparing the case and the result.

Linda shares her thoughts on the use of DNA technology in her sister’s case, and what it provided her family.  Anne Marie, Ray and Ron reflect on what stuck with them about Sharon’s case, and lasting changes or advances came out of their pursuit of justice for Sharon and her family.

Linda closes with how she and her family are doing today and what she wants listeners to know most about Sharon.

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Tags – True Crime, District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert, Justice Journal, Cold Cases, Cold Case Prosecutions, DNA, DNA Evidence, DNA Hit, Forensic Science Cold Case, Forensic DNA, Forensic Science, Sharon Wilcoxson, Pete Willover, Ray Biondi

Description: Discussion on actionable criminal animal cruelty, background on the Animal Cruelty Unit & Regional Task Force, examples of cases, the importance of educating the community on animal cruelty and how the public can help reduce and prevent animal cruelty.  Guests are Principal Criminal Attorney Hilary Bagley- Franzoia, City of Sacramento Chief Animal Control Officer Jace Huggins and Veterinarian Dr. Sara Harrison. 

Show Notes:  The group introduces themselves and explain their roles within their organizations and their personal passion and commitment to protecting animals.

Guests talk about how they all work together on the Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force and the changes it has made to the investigation and prosecution of cases.  This includes how it has changed the training of animal control officers and the changing trend in the work of these officers.  Dr. Harrison shares how she works with the Task Force, her integral role and expertise in conducting necropsies and how that helps with criminal cases. 

The group also discusses what is actionable criminal animal cruelty - including physical cruelty and neglect – the existing laws for animal cruelty cases, examples of animal cruelty cases and consequences for the offenders and the unique challenges with animal cruelty cases.  They also provide insight into what they feel is key to preventing animal cruelty and neglect, including educating children and the general public about how to properly treat and care for animals and what do if they suspect or witness animal cruelty and how to report it. \

They provide information on free and/or mobile spay, neuter and animal vaccination clinics that are available in different parts of the city and county. 

Guests stress the proven and prevalent link between animal cruelty and violence against people with statistics and examples of cases – many involving domestic violence. 

They close with the importance of continuing the accomplishments and progress made by the Animal Cruelty Unit and Task Force.   

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 Tags - District Attorney, Animal Cruelty Unit, Animal Cruelty Regional Task Force, Animal Cruelty, Animal Cruelty, Justice Journal Podcast, Sacramento City Animal Control, Animal Neglect, Animal Abuse

Description: DA Anne Marie Schubert leads a discussion on how using genetic genealogy in criminal cases has revolutionized fighting violent crime.  Topics include background on the first case to use this tool (Golden State Killer/East Area Rapist) to the general process, other successful cases across the nation, training other jurisdictions and implementing a best practices model.

Show Notes: District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert gives background and her personal and professional history with the first case to use genetic genealogy in a criminal investigation – the Golden State Killer/East Area Rapist/Original Night Stalker. 

Termed by law enforcement as “Investigative Genetic Genealogy” (IGG), Lieutenant Kirk Campbell and Analyst Monica Czajkowski join the discussion to share what they initially thought about the idea of using genetic genealogy in a criminal investigation.  They then explain the general process of how to do IGG (from DNA evidence to tree building), how the core team (Team Justice) worked together and the learning curve involved.  Once a suspect is identified Kirk explains how traditional police work takes back over at that point to make sure they have the right suspect.

They talk about how since the Golden State Killer case, a number of jurisdictions across the nation have also successfully used IGG, proving IGG is a viable investigative tool.  Anne Marie talks about the importance of standards and a best practices model for jurisdictions using IGG. 

Kirk and Monica explain the trainings they are conducting for law enforcement across the nation on how to do IGG as well as applying standards and best practices.   They describe the reaction and response from the agencies on this new tool, which in Anne Marie’s words gives them hope and provides relief to victims.   In addition to trainings, Kirk and Monica assist the FBI with other cases. 

The conversation closes with the three reflecting on how they feel to have been part of a ground-breaking case and to be pioneers in investigative genetic genealogy.

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