Top Prosecutor Candidate talks about Maricopa County's Criminal Justice System

In this episode of the Modern Divorce podcast, host Billie Tarascio sits down with Gina Godbehere, candidate for Maricopa County Prosecutor, to discuss local crime and the justice system. The conversation begins with a focus on the Gilbert Goons, a group recently classified as a gang, and the complications of prosecuting their crimes without sufficient evidence to prove gang-related motivations.

Gina elaborates on the difficulties in tying crimes to gang activities, noting that traditional gang identifiers, such as markings and territorial threats, are missing in this case. Despite the group’s gang-like intimidation tactics, there was insufficient evidence to charge them under gang-related statutes. This nuanced explanation sheds light on the frustrations felt by the community regarding the prosecution of these crimes.

The discussion then shifts to recent plea deals offered to members of the Gilbert Goons, including notable cases involving Christopher Fantastik, DeLeon Haynes, Jacob Pennington, and Garrett Bagshaw. Gina explains the implications of these deals, particularly how some offenders might only end up with misdemeanors, raising concerns about the potential for future criminal activity without a lasting felony record.

A significant portion of the podcast is devoted to Gina’s critique of Rachel Mitchell, the current county attorney', and her more lenient approach to diversion programs and plea deals. Gina emphasizes the need for a balanced justice system that ensures accountability and protects victims' rights. Gina also touches on supervised probation and the challenges in effectively monitoring offenders to prevent recidivism.

The episode wraps up with Gina’s reflections on her campaign and her commitment to restoring balance in the justice system, advocating for both victim support and fair prosecution. For more information about Gina, go to Gina for Justice, to learn more.