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Ever wonder why some serious crimes, especially those involving teens, seem to result in light sentences like probation or misdemeanors? In this episode of the Modern Arizona Podcast, host Billie Tarascio talks with Tamika Wooten, a longtime prosecutor, defense attorney, and judge who’s now running for Maricopa County Attorney. Tamika pulls back the curtain on how criminal cases are really handled, diving into everything from teen violence cases to the frustrating gaps in the justice system. If you’ve been confused or outraged by what you’ve seen in local headlines, this conversation will help you understand why things play out the way they do.

Tamika shares her perspective on the issues voters are concerned about, and high-profile cases, including the Gilbert Goons, where teens were involved in group assaults and still walked away with minimal consequences. She explains the challenges of prosecutorial discretion and how it impacts everything from sentencing to public safety. This episode doesn’t just stop at the problems—it’s also about solutions. Tamika talks about how the system can be improved, especially when it comes to dealing with mental health, addiction, and making sure justice is actually served.

Whether you’re a voter trying to make sense of the justice system or a concerned community member who wants to know why violent offenders sometimes get off easy, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tamika’s experience from all sides of the courtroom gives her a unique perspective on what’s broken and how it can be fixed.

If you want to learn more about Tamika Wooten and her campaign for Maricopa County Attorney, visit her website at tamika-wooten.com.