Crimes That Changed The Way We Look At Justice

There are stories out there which just stick with you for one reason or another. Sometimes these stories make such an impact that they completely change the way we look at justice and on occasion, the law itself. 

We have gone ahead and collated a list of four podcasts which have in some way or another shaped the justice system or left a lasting impact on the people involved. 

Crime Insiders: In Focus – Lawyer-X

In the early 2000’s, Victoria Police were waist deep in an underbelly crime epidemic which involved police corruption, drugs, violence and murder. 

Many of those involved thought they would get away with it, but Victoria Police had a secret weapon in their arsenal – a criminal barrister who police called “Lawyer X” who would go on to play double agent, betraying her clients, associates and even her lovers. 

This six-part series dives deep into the fascinating life of Lawyer X, a.k.a Nicola Gobbo and why at the height of her career, she would make a decision that would destroy everything she built and put her life in danger. 

Crime Junkie – Precedent: Ernesto Miranda

True crime fans would be well familiar with the term ‘Miranda Rights’ but in case you aren’t, it is a list of rights police are required to read out to a person who is under arrest – “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”

While these are undoubtedly familiar to you, did you know Miranda Rights were actually named after Ernesto Miranda, a man who arrested for kidnapping, rape and armed robbery in 1963. While, the case seemed cut and dry at the time after Ernesto gave police a full confession, investigators would soon realise the case was not as simple as it seemed. 

Dateline: 13 Alibis

This podcast follows a deep investigation into the imprisonment of Richard Rosario, who was convicted of murder in 1996 and sentenced to 20 years in prison. 

The only problem is, Richard claimed he was in Florida at the time of the murder and had 13 credible witnesses to back him up. 

Dateline producer Dan Slepian caught wind of the story and spends two years looking deeper into Richard’s case, taking listeners along for the journey which includes interviews with the 13 witnesses and Richard himself, who has continued to maintain his innocence.

Culpable: Trust the process

When we suffer a tragedy, we put our faith in the legal system to get to the truth and justice we need. But sometimes, even though it may seem obvious who is truly culpable for our loss, the legal system can’t always bring us the justice we deserve. 

In this multi-part podcast series, host Dennis Cooper joins families and friends along their lengthy journey for justice for their loved ones and who they believe to be culpable. Dennis gets close to the families of these victims to find out who is culpable and why.

Catch up on more interviews like this by downloading the LiSTNR app! Enjoy a new world of audio with all your favourite shows and stations in one library.