This week on Justice Then, Justice Now, we are honored to welcome Sam Weitz, who's journey from Atlantic City to becoming a federal agent is nothing short of inspiring. From a pivotal connection with a local mayor that kickstarted his career at just 20 years old to navigating complex state laws and networking, Sam's story is informative and entertaining.

As Sam reminisces about his career, he shares eye-opening experiences and challenges faced in federal law enforcement. Sam opens up about specific cases, including the tragic fallout from a sergeant's unfit leadership, offering candid reflections on the political landscapes within federal agencies and how professionalism and respect are vital for maintaining morale and mission success.

We also tackle the heated topic of sanctuary city policies, particularly in Seattle and King County. Sam shares his firsthand experiences and frustrations with illegal immigration enforcement under these local policies. From significant drug busts to powerful personal stories about immigration's impact on law enforcement, this episode provides an unfiltered look at policy, accountability, and their broader implications. Join us for an episode rich with insights, emotional highs and lows, and a veteran's unwavering commitment to justice.

Produced by: Citrustream, LLC

Join us on this captivating journey with Ruben Gonzalez, a former senior special agent with US Customs, as he unveils the thrilling and often perilous world of undercover law enforcement. Discover how Ruben’s childhood in a Puerto Rican family in Wisconsin and his early exposure to law enforcement in Florida shaped his extraordinary career. From being a Customs Explorer to conducting high-stakes operations in Miami during the late 80s and early 90s, Ruben discusses his crucial role in tackling money laundering and his specialized knowledge in marine environments and trade regulations.

Step into the shadowy realm of counterfeit goods investigations, where Ruben shares stories of dismantling networks dealing in fake pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Uncover the harsh realities and dangers posed by counterfeit heart and cancer medications, among other items, often traced back to international origins. Ruben’s relentless pursuit of justice continues with his involvement in Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), where he fights human trafficking in Central America, offering invaluable training to local law enforcement and holistic support to rescued victims.

Finally, we delve into the mechanics of identifying and rescuing human trafficking victims, from discreet intelligence-gathering in Costa Rican clubs to post-rescue rehabilitation efforts. Hear about Ruben’s detailed strategies to maintain safety and authenticity in undercover operations, including transporting millions in cash with local law enforcement in Panama. His impactful stories and dedication to justice provide a riveting and inspiring account of the relentless fight to protect the innocent and bring criminals to justice.

Produced by: Citrustream, LLC

Join us as we sit down with retired NYPD Detective Ralph Friedman, who shares his extraordinary journey from an unplanned entry into law enforcement to becoming a legendary figure with over 2,000 arrests. Through vivid stories of camaraderie and peril in the 41 precinct, known as Fort Apache, Ralph paints a raw portrait of what it was like to serve during one of New York City's most challenging eras.

Imagine a routine purse-snatching call turning into a rooftop shootout that could have ended it all. That's just one of the many intense moments Ralph recounts, including the critical role Confidential Informants (CIs) played in operations and the unique bonds formed among officers during high-stakes situations. From tales of heroism to the devastating impact of the 1975 NYC budget cuts on police operations, Ralph's stories give listeners an inside look at the dedication and bravery required to survive in such an unforgiving environment.

As we reflect on the evolving landscape of modern law enforcement, Ralph discusses how tools like body cameras and shifts in public trust have changed the game. We explore the complexities of maintaining accountability and respect for the police while facing political interference and public scrutiny. Ralph concludes by contemplating the future of policing in New York City and beyond, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of those who serve. Don't miss Ralph's heartfelt tribute to his fellow officers and his encouragement for listeners to check out his book "Street Warrior" and the Amazon series "Street Justice: The Bronx." This episode is a powerful homage to the men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping our streets safe.

Produced by: Citrustream, LLC