S1 · E104
Sunday · 57 min
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Law Matters 1030
Sherry Harrison
At Law Matters, our mission is to carry out non-partisan research, education, and informational activities by opening the lines of communication through public media, and classroom settings between law enforcement, lawmakers, as well as military personnel, whose goal of increasing awareness serves to establish safer, more informed communities. We are a 501(c)(3) dependant on your support. https://lawmatters1030.org/programs
- 20 episodes
- Avg 36 min
- English
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S1 · E103Saturday · 24 minClass Action Lawsuits and Fraud
Fraud in the class action lawsuits and how to fix it. We need your help.
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S1 · E102Friday · 1 minthank you for honoring our Veteran
Thanks to everyone who helped thank our veteran this year!
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S1 · E101Friday · 28 minLEO's Mental Health
Former law-enforcement professional and author Ernest Stevens joins host Sherry to discuss mental health, de-escalation, and the lasting impact of trauma on first responders and their families. He shares practical wellness habits, explains how 988 and Copline differ, and argues that agencies and loved ones can help by making support normal and setting clear boundaries. Stevens says crisis calls involving mental health can shift quickly, making de-escalation training a priority alongside staffing and behavioral-health partnerships. He describes how accumulated traumatic incidents can surface after retirement, especially when officers have had little time to process calls during their careers. Families are affected too; agencies can involve them from recruitment through retirement, and families can agree on supportive communication and boundaries. His co-authored workbook, 101 Questions to Ask Before Becoming a Law Enforcement Officer, prompts reflection on career choices, wellness, technology, testimony, and personal development. Stevens shares GEBY: gratitude, exercise, breakfast or nutritious eating, and time for yourself, with changes in these habits serving as possible warning signs. He encourages coworkers and loved ones to raise concerns compassionately rather than judgmentally when someone's behavior changes. He distinguishes 988, a crisis service offering call, text, and chat options, from Copline, which is staffed by current or retired officers; he also stresses clinician fit and cultural competency. Stevens defines trauma as what happens inside a person as a result of what happened to them, and urges first responders to normalize different reactions. He closes by urging officers to define success as making a positive difference, not merely surviving the career.
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S1 · E100October 27 · 44 minMo Goldman an Immigration Update
Immigration attorney Mo Goldman joins host Sherry to discuss a client’s release from Eloy Detention Center after a federal judge granted habeas relief, and what the case reveals about immigration detention and court oversight. They also examine detention conditions, immigration procedures, political rhetoric, and the value of hearing perspectives across the political spectrum. Mo Goldman recounts his client’s detention after a marriage-based green card waiver was denied, and the federal judge’s order releasing him after about 90 days. The conversation examines immigration judges’ appointment under the Department of Justice and concerns about political pressure and independence. Goldman describes reported conditions at Eloy, including foul-smelling drinking water, extreme cold, thin mattresses, and a pregnant detainee’s reported difficulty obtaining medical care. They discuss how detention affected the client’s immigration case, work eligibility, and next steps after release. Goldman explains that marriage-based green cards and work permits are not automatic, and describes evidence and interviews used to assess whether a marriage is genuine. The hosts discuss an ICE arrest involving conservative blogger Samuel Say and the conflicting reactions of people who had supported aggressive immigration enforcement. They criticize fear-based political messaging and personal attacks, and discuss the need for policy solutions and empathy beyond one’s political circle. Goldman and Sherry discuss polarization, election uncertainty, media diversity, and reading across political perspectives.
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S1 · E99October 27 · 57 minShield of America w/Mike Vigil
Mike Vigil, identified in the episode as a former Chief of International Operations for the DEA, about the Shield of the Americas, counterterrorism designations, drug policy, immigration enforcement, and election integrity. Vihill offers his perspective on the initiative’s capacity and explains how US foreign-terrorist designations differ from existing tools for targeting criminal networks. Mike Vihill argues that the Shield of the Americas lacks the judicial, financial-intelligence, military, and policing capacity needed for its stated security mission. He says excluding Mexico and Brazil limits the coalition because of their scale, geographic reach, and law-enforcement capabilities. Vihill outlines the US foreign-terrorist designation process, including agency review, consultation among officials, and a seven-day congressional review period. He distinguishes profit-driven criminal networks from terrorist organizations pursuing political or ideological goals, while noting overlap in tactics can complicate comparisons. Vihill argues existing laws, including the Foreign Narcotic Kingpin Designation Act, already provide tools to target drug-trafficking organizations. The discussion covers drug-interdiction priorities, including ports of entry, domestic demand, and weapons flows into Mexico. Sherry and Vihill discuss immigration enforcement, voting procedures, election claims, and public participation in elections. Vihill closes by questioning the consistency of drug-enforcement policy, citing presidential pardons discussed in the interview.
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S1 · E98October 23 · 27 minElection Laws
Former U.S. Attorney for Arizona Gary Restaino explains election-law questions behind headlines, including noncitizen voting prosecutions, federal authority over elections, and law-enforcement presence near polling places. He also offers practical guidance on responding to voting-machine errors and making a calm, informed voting plan. Restaino says noncitizens can mistakenly appear on voter rolls through motor-voter registration processes, and prosecutors must prove knowing conduct; reliance on official errors may provide a defense. He discusses the Maricopa County review of 60 referred voters: eight were identified as noncitizens, while 52 were citizens who were wrongly accused, prompting a lawsuit seeking their restoration to the rolls. He questions the timing of federal election-related charges announced close to an election, noting the longstanding DOJ practice of avoiding actions that could influence elections or undermine confidence. Restaino says states generally administer elections under the Elections Clause, while Congress may intervene; he argues Alaska's ballot dispute should primarily be handled by Alaska courts. He explains the federal prohibition, dating to 1865, on armed federal agents at polling places and describes local officials asking ICE agents to leave polling locations. He describes legal support and coordination for election officials, including the Government Council and Election Officials Network, convenings, and tabletop exercises. He cautions that mass mobilization near polling places can obstruct voters, and recommends reporting concerns through appropriate channels rather than confronting a situation. For voting-machine concerns, he advises checking selections before finalizing an electronic ballot; in Arizona, paper ballots provide a physical record. His practical voting-plan advice: review the ballot beforehand, allow extra time, know where and how you will vote, and stay calm if problems arise.
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S1 · E97October 23 · 53 minsex offenders walking free
Attorney Erik Bauer, featured in the documentary I Am Jane Doe, joins Law Matters to discuss his work representing child sex-trafficking survivors and the legal concepts of accomplice liability, aiding and abetting, and evidence in crimes committed in private. They also debate political accountability, oversight, technology companies, and the need to protect children and uphold the rule of law. Erik Bauer describes representing child victims trafficked through Backpage and Craigslist, and the effort to reduce online exploitation. He explains why trafficking prosecutions often rely on survivor testimony and circumstantial evidence rather than public video evidence. The conversation examines accomplice liability, including how knowingly helping conceal a crime can create legal exposure. Sherry and Bauer discuss the political use of a survivor's family history and the broader question of whether powerful people face equal accountability. Bauer recalls working alongside John and Cindy McCain and other lawmakers on efforts to combat online child trafficking. They connect tech platforms' incentives and weak oversight to trafficking, scams, and the concentration of media power. The discussion closes with calls for stronger oversight, child protection, transparency, and voting as a means of accountability.
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S1 · E96October 22 · 59 minAZPOST w/ Chuck Miiller
In this episode, Chuck Miiller, the executive director of Arizona Post, shares insights into law enforcement standards, discipline, and the role of Arizona Post in maintaining professional integrity. We explore how policies, culture, and transparency impact law enforcement agencies and officers. Arizona Post's role and responsibilities Police certification and training oversight Discipline and misconduct investigation processes Impact of culture and discipline on police morale Use of body worn cameras for transparency The Brady list and background checks Inter-agency cooperation in investigations Legal and procedural aspects of police discipline
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S1 · E95October 18 · 54 minSteve Miller
In this episode, we explore the influence of Stephen Miller on Trump's policies, focusing on immigration, election interference, and the broader implications for American democracy. Guest Mike Vihill provides an in-depth analysis of Miller's background, strategies, and the dangerous trajectory of current political actions. Stephen Miller's background and ideological radicalization Miller's influence on immigration enforcement and ICE policies The impact of Miller's policies on US economy and social fabric Election interference tactics and threats to voting integrity Analysis of Project 2025 and its implications for democracy
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S1 · E94October 12 · 40 secAZ Gov.
No PAC money, just honest integrity to do a great job. Teriann4gov.org
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S1 · E93October 12 · 40 minElection Responsibilities
In this episode, we explore the current unstable political landscape, international conflicts, and the importance of voting wisely to safeguard democracy. Guest Mike Vigil, former Chief of International Operations for DEA, shares insights on global affairs, U.S. politics, and civic responsibility. · The recent political shifts and instability in the U.S. · Analysis of U.S. foreign policy and military actions in Iran and elsewhere. · The importance of voting and civic engagement in democracy. · The impact of leadership decisions on international relations. · The role of accountability and integrity in government.
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S1 · E92October 10 · 44 minAZ Gov. Candidates for No Label party
In this episode, candidates Terry Hurrihan and Angela Mohan discuss their backgrounds, campaign strategies, and key issues facing Arizona, including water crisis, election integrity, and government reform. They share insights on running as independents, the importance of voter research, and their vision for a transparent, accountable government. Candidates backgrounds and motivations Campaign strategies and signature gathering Water crisis and resource management in Arizona Election integrity and voter suppression concerns Government reform and internal agency audits Role of independent candidates and no labels party Impact of political extremism and extremism in politics Legal issues and controversies involving political figures Vision for Arizona's future and policy priorities
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S1 · E91October 8 · 30 minSex Trafficking Awareness
In this episode, Stacey Sutherland, the program director for Trust at the Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network, shares insights on sex trafficking, how to recognize victims, and what communities can do to help. Learn about the laws, victim services, and how to stay safe online in the fight against trafficking. The difference between labor and sex trafficking Legal definitions and laws in Arizona and federally Signs of trafficking and how to identify victims The importance of community awareness and education Online safety and digital risks for children Law enforcement and victim support services The impact of AI on trafficking laws How to report suspected trafficking The role of schools and community groups in prevention Victims' stories and resilience
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S1 · E90October 5 · 59 minImmigration Update with Mo
In this episode, immigration attorney Mo Goldman discusses the complexities and challenges of current immigration policies, including deportation practices, secret courts, and the impact on individuals seeking legal status. He sheds light on recent developments and the broader implications for democracy and human rights. Deportation and third-country removals Secret immigration courts and legality Impact of policies on individuals and human rights Recent changes in naturalization and citizenship processes Government influence and transparency in immigration enforcement
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S1 · E89October 1 · 41 minCults, How They Work
In this episode, we explore the psychology of cults, signs of manipulation, and how political figures can exhibit cult-like behaviors. Hosted by Sherry, featuring expert insights from Mike, a former DEA Chief, on recognizing and understanding dangerous group dynamics. Definition of a cult and its characteristics Signs of a cult leader and supporter loyalty The role of charismatic authority and support systems Historical examples: Waco, Jim Jones, and others How political figures exhibit cult-like behaviors The impact of groupthink and social influence Signs of manipulation and control in groups The importance of critical thinking and awareness
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S1 · E88October 1 · 40 minBorder Patrol
In this episode, CPA Henry Laxdal from Border Patrol shares insights on border security, the challenges faced by agents, and the latest technology and strategies used to combat illegal crossings, drugs, and human trafficking. Border security and support efforts Challenges of detecting and apprehending illegal crossings Use of technology like border wall sensors and surveillance towers Agent safety and training protocols Drug and human trafficking interdiction Legal aspects of crossing the border Border wall construction and terrain challenges Interagency cooperation and community support "We are not going to tolerate illegal crossings anymore" "The effects of drugs on our communities are devastating" "Our mission is to secure America's borders"
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S1 · E86September 26 · 35 minDeadly Drugs on Our Streets
In this episode, Marc and Sherry delve into the complex issues surrounding drug trafficking, the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl and cycloforin, and strategies to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the US. They explore the roles of international cooperation, law enforcement, education, and community action. Mexican cartels expanding P2P labs in West Africa China's role in chemical supply and money laundering for cartels The impact of synthetic opioids like fentanyl and cycloforin Strategies for drug abuse prevention including education and rehab Law enforcement challenges and international cooperation Fentanyl labs in Mexico are producing increasingly potent synthetic opioids that are deadly and hard to detect. China's chemicals are a major source of illicit fentanyl and other synthetic drugs, with limited cooperation from Chinese authorities. Narcan is effective for fentanyl overdoses, but new synthetic drugs like cycloforin are resistant to it. Prevention efforts should start early with education, and rehab facilities need to be more accessible. Law enforcement faces significant challenges due to the high potency and low cost of synthetic drugs.
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S1 · E85September 25 · 28 minNo Label Elections
Sarah Smallhouse discusses the challenges of the current political landscape, the impact of gerrymandering, and the efforts of the No Labels Party in Arizona to promote open primaries and independent candidates. This episode offers insights into electoral reform and how voters can participate more effectively. The impact of gerrymandering on elections The rise of unaffiliated voters and their influence The concept and goals of the No Labels Party Challenges faced in implementing open primaries The importance of primary elections for voter influence Efforts to change Arizona's election laws The candidate pledge for integrity and collaboration Building a political movement for reform Open primaries can increase voter participation and fairness. Gerrymandering distorts representation and voter choice. The No Labels Party aims to empower independent voters. Electoral reform requires cultural change and persistence. Primary elections are more impactful than general elections. Voters should be educated on the importance of primaries. Building bipartisan cooperation is essential for effective governance.