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Listen Now - Criminal Attorney

Listen Now - Criminal Attorney

Update: 2024-09-231
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Digest

The podcast delves into the world of FBI investigations, specifically focusing on the use of informants. It introduces Paul Berberin, a lawyer known for his ability to navigate complex legal situations, and Shawn Brokos, an FBI agent investigating a gun case in Newark. The story centers around Kimo DeShawn McCray, a man with a felony conviction who is found in possession of a shotgun. Kimo escapes, but Shawn sees an opportunity to use him as a confidential informant. The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of informants, highlighting the potential for abuse and the risks involved for both the informant and the FBI. It discusses the challenges of convincing someone to become an informant, particularly when they face significant consequences for refusing. The podcast culminates in a tense meeting between Shawn and Kimo, where Kimo is presented with a choice: become an informant and risk his life, or face jail time for possessing a firearm. The podcast emphasizes the pressure Kimo is under and the leverage Shawn has in this situation.

Outlines

00:00:00
The Art of the Deal: Paul Berberin and the Law

This chapter introduces Paul Berberin, a lawyer known for his ability to get clients out of any legal trouble, regardless of guilt or innocence. The chapter compares him to fictional lawyers in popular culture, highlighting the blurred lines between reality and fiction.

00:01:28
The Gun Case and the Informant

This chapter introduces Shawn Brokos, an FBI agent who is investigating a gun case in Newark. She encounters Kimo DeShawn McCray, a man with a felony conviction who is found in possession of a shotgun. Kimo escapes, but Shawn sees an opportunity to use him as a confidential informant.

00:04:30
The Ethics of Informants

This chapter explores the ethical complexities of using informants in FBI investigations. The chapter discusses the potential for abuse and the risks involved for both the informant and the FBI. It also highlights the challenges of convincing someone to become an informant, particularly when they face significant consequences for refusing.

00:06:07
Kimo's Decision: Informant or Jail?

This chapter describes the meeting between Shawn Brokos and Kimo DeShawn McCray at the FBI Field Office. Kimo is presented with a choice: become an informant and risk his life, or face jail time for possessing a firearm. The chapter highlights the pressure Kimo is under and the leverage Shawn has in this situation.

Keywords

Confidential Informant


A person who provides information to law enforcement in exchange for leniency or other benefits. Informants are often used in investigations involving organized crime, drug trafficking, and other serious offenses.

Leverage


The power or influence that one person or group has over another. In negotiations, leverage can be used to gain concessions or achieve a desired outcome.

FBI Investigation


An inquiry conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation into suspected criminal activity. FBI investigations can involve a wide range of offenses, including terrorism, drug trafficking, and white-collar crime.

Ethical Dilemma


A situation in which a difficult choice must be made between two or more morally conflicting options. Ethical dilemmas often arise in situations where there is no clear right or wrong answer.

War on Drugs


A global campaign, primarily in the United States, aimed at reducing the illegal drug trade and drug use. The war on drugs has been criticized for its disproportionate impact on minority communities and its failure to effectively address the root causes of drug addiction.

Q&A

  • What are the ethical considerations involved in using informants in FBI investigations?

    Using informants raises ethical concerns about potential abuse, manipulation, and the risks involved for both the informant and the FBI. The use of informants can also perpetuate a cycle of violence and create a climate of fear in communities.

  • What are the challenges of convincing someone to become an informant?

    Convincing someone to become an informant can be challenging, as it often involves significant risks and consequences. Individuals may be reluctant to cooperate with law enforcement due to fear of retaliation, loyalty to their associates, or a desire to protect their families.

  • What are the potential consequences for Kimo DeShawn McCray if he refuses to become an informant?

    If Kimo refuses to become an informant, he faces the possibility of being arrested and sentenced to jail time for possessing a firearm. His previous felony conviction would likely result in a longer sentence.

Show Notes

Paul Bergrin is a hotshot criminal defense attorney in Newark, New Jersey. Seemingly unstoppable and with unorthodox methods, he’s built a reputation for getting his clients off the hook. But as Paul's legend grows, so do the suspicions swirling around him. 

When FBI Agent Shawn Brokos starts investigating a major drug ring, she makes a shocking discovery: the gang's most powerful player is none other than Newark’s star attorney. Has the ex-federal prosecutor crossed the line and started committing crimes himself?

From Wondery, comes a new series about a lawyer who breaks all the rules, the FBI agent determined to take him down at all costs, and the people caught in the middle who paid the ultimate price.


Listen to Criminal Attorney on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App or on Apple podcasts. Start your free trial by visiting Wondery.fm/Criminal_Attorney now. 


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Listen Now - Criminal Attorney

Listen Now - Criminal Attorney