In this powerful Part Two episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with the Johnson Bell family—a multi-generational force in the legal world whose dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment is nothing short of inspiring.
From courtroom victories to grassroots advocacy, the Johnson Bell family shares their unique and collective journeys in the legal profession. They discuss the development of their innovative educational game Crime No Crime, designed to help communities better understand the complexities of criminal law. The conversation dives deep into the systemic challenges faced by legal professionals of color, the importance of restoring trust in the justice system, and how education can drive change in marginalized communities.
This is more than a legal discussion—it’s a reflection on legacy, leadership, and the power of informed action.
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33:06
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33:06
Crime No Crime
In this powerful Part One episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with the Johnson Bell family—a multi-generational force in the legal world whose dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment is nothing short of inspiring.
From courtroom victories to grassroots advocacy, the Johnson Bell family shares their unique and collective journeys in the legal profession. They discuss the development of their innovative educational game Crime No Crime, designed to help communities better understand the complexities of criminal law. The conversation dives deep into the systemic challenges faced by legal professionals of color, the importance of restoring trust in the justice system, and how education can drive change in marginalized communities.
This is more than a legal discussion—it’s a reflection on legacy, leadership, and the power of informed action.
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33:42
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33:42
Hashtags & Headlines: ICE Raids and the Erosion of Civil Rights
In this Hashtag & Headlines episode of Black Arm of the Law, Dr. RaShall Brackney joins the conversation to address the recent ICE raids in Los Angeles and the unsettling impact on immigrant communities. She sheds light on the aggressive, militarized tactics deployed in urban neighborhoods and raises deep concerns about threats made by law enforcement leaders. Dr. Brackney draws the connection between these actions and the larger erosion of democratic values and civil rights.
This episode is a call to awareness, accountability, and justice for communities under siege.
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18:15
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18:15
Journal Of A Black Woman In Blue
In this powerful episode of Black Arm of the Law, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with retired Detective and author Brenda Tate to explore her incredible journey through law enforcement, addiction, recovery, and resilience.
Brenda, author of Journal of a Black Woman in Blue, opens up about her early leadership experiences, the barriers she broke as a Black woman in a male-dominated profession, and the childhood trauma that shaped her path.
Together, they discuss the ‘mercy moments’ that influenced Brenda’s healing, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of empowering the next generation—especially women of color—to serve their communities with strength and purpose. This episode is a moving testament to courage, vulnerability, and the power of telling one’s truth.
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47:40
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47:40
Journal of a Black Woman in Blue
In this powerful episode of *Black Arm of the Law*, host Dr. RaShall Brackney sits down with retired Detective and author Brenda Tate to explore her incredible journey through law enforcement, addiction, recovery, and resilience. Brenda, author of *Journal of a Black Woman in Blue*, opens up about her early leadership experiences, the barriers she broke as a Black woman in a male-dominated profession, and the childhood trauma that shaped her path.
Together, they discuss the ‘mercy moments’ that influenced Brenda’s healing, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of empowering the next generation—especially women of color—to serve their communities with strength and purpose. This episode is a moving testament to courage, vulnerability, and the power of telling one’s truth.
Black Arm of the Law is a powerful and thought-provoking podcast that explores the complexities of being Black in law enforcement. Hosted by Dr. RaShall Brackney, former Chief of Police in Charlottesville, Virginia, the show dives deep into the personal and professional experiences of those navigating the often unseen and misunderstood intersection of race, justice, and public safety. Through honest conversations and critical insights, the podcast sheds light on how race and identity shape the lives and careers of Black officers behind the badge.
Each episode tackles timely and urgent topics—from systemic bias and the politicization of civil service to the ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The show also confronts the cultural and emotional tolls of working within institutions not built with marginalized communities in mind, while highlighting the need for reform, accountability, and human-centered policing.
At its core, *Black Arm of the Law* is about truth-telling, empowerment, and transformation. With voices from across the spectrum of law enforcement, the podcast uplifts stories of resilience, leadership, and advocacy. Whether discussing civil rights, community safety, or mental health, this series invites listeners into a critical dialogue on justice, equity, and the future of public service.
New Zealand