Covering Courts and the Law

2022

Rural Justice: Small Towns, Big Problems

The three-episode podcast reported and produced by students explores how rural communities face challenges in their criminal justice system that are just as complex as the problems that big cities confront. Episode 1 examines efforts by federal authorities to dismantle an organization that sold drugs and young girls and women into prostitution. Episode 2 takes an in-depth look at the consequences of methamphetamine abuse and the long road to recovery for many addicts who wind up behind bars. Episode 3 reveals the scarcity and inequity of opportunities available to male and female inmates while they're locked up—and the barriers they face after they're released, return home, and try to rebuild their lives.

Episode 1

Rockbridge Report · Small Towns, Big Problems - Episode 1

Episode 2

Rockbridge Report · Small Towns - Big Problems - Episode 2

Episode 3

Rockbridge Report · Small Towns - Big Problems - Episode 3

2020

Courtroom Conversations

The four-episode podcast was reported and produced by students who examined key issues that perplex the players inside and outside America's legal system. Episode 1 explores the debate over the quality of police training in the United States. Episode 2 discusses the role of judges and how it's changed over the past several decades. Episode 3 focuses on the controversy surrounding the death penalty. Episode 4 highlights overcrowding in jails and prisons.