

Episode 5: The Sanchez Problem
24 snips May 3, 2022
In this engaging discussion, Adam Mortera, a former gang member and founder of Juvenile Justice Advocates of California, shares his unique insights on the legal system. He highlights the troubling issue of biased expert testimony, particularly in gang-related cases, which has led to wrongful convictions. Mortera’s firsthand experience sheds light on the emotional challenges faced by these experts in court. He also humorously touches on the journey of balancing advocacy for at-risk youth with the hurdles of parenthood, revealing the complexities of navigating the justice system.
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Typing with Toes
- Michael Lewis's father, a lawyer, defended a railroad against an injured worker.
- His expert witness ridiculously demonstrated typing with toes, highlighting the absurdity of the defense.
Wrongful Convictions
- The National Registry of Exonerations reveals wrongful convictions since 1989, aided by DNA analysis.
- Police misconduct and flawed expert witness testimony are primary contributors, particularly in gang cases.
Overstated Certainty
- Expert witnesses, especially in arson, bite marks, and ballistics, overstate their certainty.
- This overstated certainty has contributed to wrongful convictions based on flawed science.