The NY Subway Vigilante
Summary
Hosts Josh and Chuck examine the 1984 shooting of four teenagers by Bernard Goetz on a New York City subway, known as the "Subway Vigilante" case. They discuss the high-crime context of 1980s NYC, Goetz’s prior mugging, and the intense public support he received despite the victims being unarmed. The episode covers the controversial criminal trial where Goetz was acquitted of serious charges, his subsequent conviction for illegal weapon possession, and the later civil lawsuit filed by one of the paralyzed victims.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Bombas, Capital One, American Home Shield
Introduction to Bernard Goetz and the 1984 Subway Shooting
Context: High Crime Rates in 1980s New York City
Public Reaction and the 'Subway Vigilante' Phenomenon
Sponsors: SimpliSafe, LinkedIn, Wayfair
Goetz's Background, 1981 Mugging, and Gun Permit Denial
The Incident: Details of the Shooting and Legal Controversies
Sponsors: SimpliSafe, LinkedIn, Virgin Voyages
The Criminal Trial: Testimony, Jury Selection, and Verdict
Civil Lawsuit, Later Life, and Aftermath for Victims
Listener Mail, Book Recommendations, and Final Sponsors
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