The Cross-Examination Podcast

• Episode 4: Being Vigilant About Online Dangers

  Episode 4: Being Vigilant About Online Dangers In this episode of Cross-Examination, hosts Ted Asregadoo and Brian Feinberg explore the increasingly addictive and sometimes dangerous world of apps, games, and internet sites. Contra Costa District Attorney Senior Inspector Darryl Holcombe joins Ted and Brian as a guest in the discussion. Inspector Holcombe works primarily in the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program and has years of experience combatting online crimes where the victims are young children and teens.  As the internet, apps, and games evolve, so do the risks it presents—especially for children. Darryl shares his expertise on how predators exploit trust and technology to groom victims, highlights the dangers of sexting and sharing private information, and talks about the disturbing reality behind what’s often mislabeled as “child pornography.” He also sheds light on the prevalence of cyberbullying and how ICAC’s work in prevention and education is vital for keeping children safe in digital spaces. Listeners will also hear about the Vigilant Parent Initiative, a program at the District Attorney’s Office designed to empower parents with tools and knowledge to protect their children online. As part of being a vigilant parent, Ted mentions the powerful short video Sharable?, a poignant depiction of the dangers lurking in seemingly harmless online interactions. The video was produced by Kripos, the Norwegian National Criminal Investigation Service, and it’s a powerful dramatization of the consequences of image sharing. Tune in for essential tips, eye-opening insights, and practical strategies for staying safe and vigilant in today’s digital age. To learn more, visit the Vigilant Parent Initiative page at contracostada.org, where you’ll find additional resources and information on scheduling a presentation.   Also mentioned in this episode is author Jonathan Haidt, whose book The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure, notes a study by Meta on Instagram usage among teenage girls that can lead to an uptick in mental health issues.     

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• Episode 3: Media Frames with KTVU's Henry Lee

  In this episode of Cross-Examination, Ted Asregadoo and Deputy District Attorney Brian Feinberg dive into the complex world of media coverage surrounding the criminal justice system. How do editors and reporters decide which stories to cover? What challenges do journalists face when gathering facts, especially in a social media-driven era? Joining the discussion is veteran reporter Henry Lee from KTVU FOX 2 -- who shares his insights on reporting crime stories, navigating public trust, and how balanced, solution-oriented journalism can make a difference in shaping public perception. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the power and responsibility of the Fourth Estate.

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• Episode 2: Finding Solutions to Retail Crime

  In Episode 2 of Cross-Examination, Ted Asregadoo and Deputy District Attorney Brian Feinberg explore the key differences between organized retail theft and shoplifting, along with a local initiative to combat retail crime. They’re joined by Chief of Inspectors Arnold Threets from the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office, who explains how organized retail crime operates through complex criminal networks, making it a serious felony. Chief Threets also discusses how Home Depot in Richmond/El Cerrito partnered with local law enforcement and the DA’s Office to reduce theft at the store. However, as crime continues to evolve, so must enforcement strategies. In the second segment, criminologist Samuel E. DeWitt from the American Institutes for Research delves into the psychological and societal effects of crime. He explains why crime evokes strong emotions, even among those who aren’t direct victims, pointing to how media coverage—especially extreme cases following the "if it bleeds, it leads" mindset—triggers fear and anger. Dr. DeWitt also discusses the various factors that influence crime rates, such as employment, poverty, and demographic trends, as well as the impact of laws, policies, and community services. The issues discussed in this episode show that offenses like retail crime are often complex, which means finding practical solutions to address those complexities – even when they evolve. Mentioned in the episode by Samuel DeWitt, John Roman’s Substack post: 100 Ideas for Reducing Crime in Cities—A Blueprint for Action

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• Episode 1: Saying Hey To DA Diana Becton

  In the debut episode of the Cross-Examination podcast, hosts Ted Asregadoo and Brian Feinberg sit down with District Attorney Diana Becton to explore the DA’s unique role in the criminal justice system and its impact on public safety in Contra Costa County.   DA Becton shares insights on the responsibilities of a District Attorney, emphasizing that her job is responsible for seeking and doing justice for the people of Contra Costa County. She addresses common misconceptions about the role of a DA and discusses innovative, victim-centered approaches to crime.   The conversation dives deep into critical topics like reducing recidivism, combating racial disparities, and ensuring accountability for offenses, including appropriate punishment. DA Becton also highlights the demand from voters for comprehensive reforms that balance crime prevention and community safety, which she describes as moving from an either/or mindset to what she calls a “both/and” approach.   Join us for this enlightening discussion that sheds light on the complexities of justice and public safety.

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