

Radley Balko
Journalist who has written about policing and criminal justice for decades. Author of Rise of the Warrior Cop, The Militarization of America's Police Forces and writes the substack, The Watch.
Top 5 podcasts with Radley Balko
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648 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 8min
Trump Is Building His Own Paramilitary Force
Radley Balko, a seasoned journalist focusing on policing and criminal justice, discusses the alarming rise of ICE's power under the Trump administration. He argues that Trump is attempting to create a personal paramilitary force prioritizing loyalty to him. Balko highlights the erosion of civil rights and the militarization of police, raising concerns over the authoritarian implications of these radical shifts. He also examines the chilling effects of immigration policies on communities and the potential for escalating conflicts in urban America.

May 8, 2025 • 44min
A Trumped Up Police State Is Coming
Radley Balko, a journalist and author known for his work on police militarization and civil liberties, offers insights into Donald Trump’s controversial executive order on policing. He highlights the alarming shift towards federal control over local law enforcement and the potential for increased militarization. Balko warns about the threats to accountability and civil rights, emphasizing how these moves may be used against critics of the administration. The conversation delves into broader implications for the criminal justice system and the risks of an emerging police state.

Sep 20, 2024 • 59min
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine Needs to ‘Grow a Pair’ and Stand Up to Trump
Radley Balko, an investigative journalist renowned for his insights into criminal justice, joins alongside David Rothkopf, CEO of the DSR Network. They dissect Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's lackluster response to Trump’s conspiracy theories and the alarming prospect of mass deportations. The discussion reveals the ethical and logistical nightmares behind such promises while amplifying the urgent need for brave political leadership. They also address the dangerous rise of authoritarian rhetoric in today’s political landscape, emphasizing the role of media accountability.

Aug 26, 2024 • 25min
Police and Prosecutor Misconduct Protections and A Possible Path Forward
Radley Balko, a journalist focused on public sector accountability, dives into the pervasive issues of police and prosecutor misconduct. He highlights the struggles victims face in seeking justice, emphasizing the need for reform to enhance accountability. Balko examines the troubling trend of militarization in policing, driven by financial incentives, and discusses landmark cases that illustrate the challenges of holding law enforcement accountable. He advocates for Sentinel Event Reviews to learn from mistakes and foster meaningful change in the criminal justice system.

Mar 14, 2024 • 2h 2min
Coleman Hughes vs. Radley Balko: Who's Right About George Floyd?
In this thought-provoking discussion, Coleman Hughes, a writer known for his sharp analyses of social issues, debates with Radley Balko, a journalist specializing in criminal justice. They tackle the controversial documentary about George Floyd's death, questioning its claims on police conduct and Chauvin's conviction. Hughes expresses skepticism about the murder verdict, while Balko critiques the documentary's factual accuracy. Their conversation also explores the implications of policing practices, public protests, and the challenges of communicating complex legal issues to the public.