In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, hosts Tug Cowart and Daniel Matalon of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds sit down with criminal defense attorney Noah Pines, one of Atlanta’s most respected and relentless trial lawyers. From the courtroom to endurance events that test physical and mental strength, Noah shares how preparation, mindset, and authenticity drive everything he does. Tug and Daniel dig into what really defines a “win” in criminal defense, how technology is reshaping the justice system, and why calm confidence is the mark of a true professional.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, Daniel Matalon of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds sits down with Georgia State Representative and attorney Soo Hong, founding partner of Blevins & Hong, PC. From her early days in law school to becoming a respected voice in the Georgia State House, Representative Hong shares how her legal background, persistence, and passion for people shaped her path in both law and politics. Daniel and Soo dive into leadership, resilience, and the balance between public service and private practice, while exploring how listening across party lines leads to better policy and a stronger justice system. Representative Hong also reflects on breaking barriers as a woman and immigrant in law and government, offering insight and inspiration for the next generation of leaders. This episode is a reminder that courage, community, and authenticity go hand in hand in both justice and public service.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, Daniel Matalon of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds sits down with Atlanta criminal defense attorney W. Scott Smith, founder of W. Scott Smith PC and known across Georgia as the Peach State Lawyer. From late-night calls and courtroom strategy to the rise of Ai in the legal world, Scott and Daniel keep it real about what’s changing, and what never will, in criminal defense. They dig into the importance of human connection, the ethics of technology, and why empathy and integrity still matter most in the justice system. This episode reminds us that behind every case is a person, a story, and a chance to do right by both.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, Daniel Matalon of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds sits down with Cobb County District Attorney Sonya Allen, the first African American woman elected DA in Cobb County. With more than 30 years of legal experience, DA Allen shares her perspective on serving the community with compassion, accountability, and integrity. The conversation explores how true leadership in justice is built on compassion, accountability, and the courage to face even the most complex and emotional cases with purpose and heart. Tune in for an honest discussion about balancing fairness, supporting victims, and creating real opportunities for second chances.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, Daniel Matalon and Tug Cowart sit down with Victor Hill, former Clayton County Sheriff and current congressional candidate for Georgia’s 5th District. Hill discusses his assertive approach to law enforcement, his experiences with what he refers to as "lawfare," and how those experiences motivated his run for Congress. The episode explores his views on reforming grand juries, reshaping plea deals, and promoting media accountability. Listeners also get an inside look at his book Vigilante Sheriff and his forthcoming documentary American Law Fear, offering a deeper perspective on his personal journey and political campaign.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, Sheriff Patrick “Pat” Labat joins hosts Daniel Matalon and Tug Cowart to talk leadership, community, and the realities of justice in Fulton County. With more than 37 years in law enforcement and now serving his second term as Sheriff, Labat shares his journey from detention officer to elected leader, his passion for mental health reform, and why second chances matter. From reflections on building trust in the community to the importance of reentry programs, this conversation offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities in today’s justice system. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in leadership, reform, and the people working to create meaningful change in Fulton County and beyond. 👉 Subscribe now for more conversations that unpack justice, one conversation at a time.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, CEO of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds, Daniel Matalon, and co-host Tug Cowart sit down with FBI Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown and FBI Special Agent Charles Orgbon Jr., the Private Sector Coordinator for the Domestic Security Alliance Council (DSAC). They discuss DSAC’s mission to strengthen U.S. national and economic security through partnerships between the federal government and the private sector, and how information sharing plays a critical role in protecting communities. From the council’s formation to real-world examples of collaboration, this conversation covers who can join, how DSAC operates across the country, and what meaningful public-private partnerships look like in practice. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in national security, law enforcement, and the vital role collaboration plays in keeping America safe. Subscribe now for more conversations that unpack justice — one conversation at a time.

In this episode of Justice Unfiltered, CEO of A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds, Daniel Matalon, and co-host Tug Cowart sat down with former APD Chief Bryant and Natalie Ammons from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office to discuss the history, mission, and impact of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). From its 1976 founding to today’s work bridging law enforcement and communities, they cover national initiatives, the standout Georgia chapter, and the challenges shaping the future of policing. This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about supporting those who drive change in their communities. 👉  Subscribe now for more conversations that unpack justice — one conversation at a time. 

Ken Ashley, Chairman of the Fulton County Sheriff's Foundation, shares how the foundation plays a crucial role in supporting deputies and officers—both during times of personal need and moments of celebration. Support for impactful community initiatives like the annual Back-to-School event, the foundation works to foster positive interactions between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Ken also highlights a unique opportunity for taxpayers to directly allocate up to $5,000 to qualified law enforcement foundations, helping fund resources such as mental health care services, specialized equipment and bonuses.

 Chanae Clemons, Clayton County Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Court, and Tahnicia Phillips, Cobb County Clerk of State Court, highlight the multifaceted responsibilities of the Clerk of Court—from maintaining official court records and administering oaths to providing vital administrative support to the judicial system. They stress that while the Clerk’s Office cannot offer legal advice, equipping staff with a strong network of resources and referral options is essential to ensure that community members can access critical information in moments that may carry life-changing consequences.

 Che` Alexander, Clerk of Court for Fulton County, emphasizes that the Clerk's Office plays a vital role in the lives of all who interact with the court system—whether through criminal proceedings, financial disputes, or real estate filings. Under her leadership, the Office has embraced a culture of experience, respect, and heartfelt compassion, resulting in notably increased efficiency and responsiveness throughout the Fulton County Courts.

Alli Neal and Jennifer Ross of Revved Up Kids discuss the startling statistics on sexual abuse of children - such as the average age of assault victims is 8 years old - and why it's important that this information isn't hidden away. Revved Up Kids provides training to help prevent sexual abuse by working with students, parents, community groups and local 

Defense Attorney Ashleigh Merchant shares details from recent cases that have captured public attention and, in some cases, alarmed the public unnecessarily. Ashleigh subscribes to the philosophy that the more the public sees the sausage being made, the better it is for criminal justice.

Mike Lutzenkirchen, Lutzie 43 Foundation, discusses summer driving safety during a time that has been deemed the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer - the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day when teen crash fatalities spike. He also discusses Georgia's Motor Carrier Compliance division of the Georgia State Patrol, a partner with Lutzie 43 working to create better behaviors behind the wheel. 

Major Steve Gaynor and Investigator Pedros Munoz of the Cobb Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division detail the ongoing work of their Fraud Division as fraud cases continue to rise. They highlight how criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leading to an escalation in the financial impact of these crimes.

The Jess Rousey Honoring Heroes Foundation and its founder, Samantha Rousey Glass, are dedicated to ensuring that first responders are equipped, supported and empowered to serve their communities. Lt. Justin Bullis with the Cobb County Police and and retired Major Barry Little join Samantha to discuss the important work performed by the all-volunteer staff and board of the foundation for first responders in Paulding and Cobb counties.

Tyrone Spears, Founder of the Jardine Spears Autism Foundation, discusses the special circumstances first responders face when interacting with autistic individuals, but the mood lightens while discussing bowling, classical music, horseback riding, golf cart driving and other activities the foundation makes possible.   

Chief Buster Cushing and Captain Richie Rich talk about what makes the Cherokee County Schools Police a great example of community policing. With more than 60 years combined experience in law enforcement, they share stories of relationship building that goes well beyond keeping students safe.

Milton Police Chief Jason Griffin is joined by Milton First Responder Foundation Board of Directors Brian Dolan and Robyn Pinto to discuss the community's huge priority of taking care of the first responders who keep the community safe. Free counseling, financial support in emergencies as well as annual gift card giving are just a few of the ways the community cares for the personnel who take good care of Milton - recently named one of the safest cities in Georgia

Lt. Nichole Culberson and Lt. Jenaro Hare of the Gwinnett Sheriff's Office join Back Your Blue to discuss the important work of the Mental Health Task Force. By providing vital services and resources to the community, the Gwinnett Sheriff's office is keeping the community safer and healthier.

Gwinnett Sheriff Keybo Taylor and Lt. Jenaro Hare share a passion for community service, and they discuss many of the outreach programs that the Sheriff's Office hosts and sponsors each year as well as the ongoing theme of "Hope and Giving." They also share how the Keybo Building Bridges Foundation creates philanthropic solutions through community engagements.

Carrollton Mayor Pro Tem Jacqulene Elaine Bridges lives by a positive philosophy of building bridges and brings it to her role in the community. She shares information about the Carrollton Police Department Mobile Crisis Unit and the important role collaboration plays in the city including the monthly luncheon meeting attended by police, clergy, elected officials and other stakeholders in the community. 

Chaplain Lou Koon discusses the special problems first responders face as they suffer a significantly higher risk of suicide than the general population. PTSD, depression and anxiety are common for police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and dispatchers due to repeated exposure to trauma and life-threatening situations. There are programs available through Stop Suicide USA, the SAM Foundation and others to provide life-saving strategies.

CEO Daniel Matalon provides insight on the bail bonds and monitoring businesses and how he started A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds which is a big part of his personal history. Tug and Daniel also discuss why dealing with drug abuse is so essential for safe communities and protecting youth including a conversation centered on legal loopholes that allow some addictive products to be sold legally in the community. 

Bernard Kerik on Law Enforcement, Trump, and the Deep State | Back Your Blue Podcast Former NYC Police Commissioner Bernie Kerik, having served in advisory roles to President Trump for many years, provides his unique insight with Back Your Blue. Extolling the Executive Actions taken in just the first few days of President Trump's term, Kerik says the President is committed to a return to common sense so that all of the men and women who wear a badge can rest assured they will have the support they deserve and need. He also discusses the President's team including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and the professionalism she brings to the role.      #LawEnforcement #BernardKerik #TrumpSupport #DeepState #ControversialPardons #MediaBias #Leadership #NYPD #VeteranSupport #PoliticalInsights Key Takeaways Insights into law enforcement challenges and leadership. Bernard Kerik's experiences with the NYPD and Trump administration. Discussion on the deep state and controversial pardons. The impact of media bias and the changing political landscape. Importance of loyalty and trust in building a reliable team. "Bernard Kerik discusses law enforcement, Trump, the deep state, and media bias on the Back Your Blue Podcast. Tune in for insights and engaging conversation."  

GBI Special Agent in Charge of Special Investigations Brian Whidby and Assistant Special Agent Christi Kanner explain how the GBI's Cold Case Division started in 2023 through the Coleman-Baker Act to tackle unsolved cases in Georgia. While time lends some perspective to cold cases, it also causes some loss of evidence. The cold case team overcomes many obstacles to bring justice to victims and families.     

Lt Roger Nalls, Cobb Police Homeland Security Commander and Officer Aaron Wilson, Cobb PIO discuss safety and security at large events in light of the recent terror attack in New Orleans. Discussion centered on the interagency cooperation that takes place between neighboring jurisdictions as well as state and federal agencies. Peparation and communications play key roles in keeping the public safe. 

Donna Georgiana and Chris Miller with Gotcha Covered Blankets believe in honoring the many acts of kindness police officers perform every day and that's why some of those officers will be recipients of awards at their upcoming gala on January 24. The organization, founded after the suicide of young police officer Mitchell Georgiana, focuses efforts on bringing awareness of mental health needs for law enforcement.  

Joey Stafford shares details about the Gwinnet Sheriff's Office GRIP program that helps prepare inmates for life after release from jail. With in-custody jobs and training programs, released participants are better prepared for re-entry into the community. In addition to vocational training, Stafford explains how help with housing and sober living facility partnerships are important to the success of the program.  

Commissioner Michael Nail started his career as a probation officer and worked in all aspects of corrections before serving as the first commissioner of The Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) following its formation in 2015. Recognizing employment, housing, mental health services and addiction services as central to success of supervised offenders, DCS emphasizes working within the community for successful reunification. 

Roswell Fire Department Chaplain Dorie Griggs explains the very important role chaplains play in the first responder community. In the face of tragedies, a comforting figure serves a valuable function to victims as well as the first responders working in their high-pressure environment. Dorie discusses the interaction between Roswell Fire and Roswell Police Departments under a One Roswell support philosophy. 

"Isn't it better that your first experience with the police is a positive one and not at a traffic stop," asks Sgt. Anwar Sillah of the Dunwoody Police Department. Building a closer, positive relationship between teens and the police is critical for communities and a real passion for Sgt. Sillah as he leads the Teen Police Academy.  

The Citizens Police Academy brings about valuable relationship building when citizens can actually see behind the scenes of police work in the community and officers gain insight into how the citizens they serve are interested and engaged in public safety. Officers Cabral and Aguirre discuss the program and the participant activities. They also discuss the specialized academies aimed at teens and Spanish-speakers.

Marietta Police Department Wellness Officer Jonnie Moeller-Reed explains that while it's difficult enough to recruit someone willing to devote themselves to public service and to wear a gun every day, additional effort and resources need to go toward keeping officers healthy and mentally well. Officer Moeller-Reed developed the Wellness Officer role when she witnessed the need firsthand working for more than 20 years in law enforcement.

Housing intervention is a lengthy and expensive endeavor and Melanie Kagan discusses its importance to safe communities as well as CFR’s partnership with law enforcement to measure the homeless population.

Charitable Bonds" have more people thinking about bail and the role it plays in the criminal Justice system, so Mike Whitlock hopes common sense is making a comeback as it relates to cash bonds.

Cobb Sheriff Craig Owens brings his prior law enforcement and military experience to lead the state’s third largest sheriff’s department. A heart for community service has propelled his success with initiatives that benefit kids, families and businesses in Cobb County.

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, no, it’s a drone! Sergeant Jeremy Blake with the Cobb County Sheriff's Office discusses the astounding capabilities of their drone program to serve in a first response situation and even deliver medical supplies. He also addresses how drones can be misused by criminals since drone technology is growing faster than legislation to provide regulation in this cutting-edge field.

Did you know that 78% of crashes involving tractor trailers and noncommercial vehicles are caused by the light vehicle? Mike Lutzenkirchen with the Lutzie 43 Foundation visits Back Your Blue to talk about the Safe Driving Summits coming up across the state this new school year, including a summit at Marietta High School. Students are learning safe driving strategies and statistics that even seasoned drivers don’t know.

Greg McNiff, Operational Leader of the Atlanta Police Foundation, explains the role of the Foundation and how it partners with not only the Atlanta Police Department, but also the Mayor, courts and other legal agencies to define cohesive police strategies that will protect the community. Learn about the important At-Promise program and its success in keeping teens and young adults out of the prison system.

Georgia native Ken Howard, Special Agent in Charge with the GBI Gang Task Force, presents eye-opening stats on gang activity in Georgia and the struggles law enforcement agencies encounter when trying to combat these entities and their negative impact on communities. He also talks about concerns at the southern border, the threat of a terror attack in America and practical tips you should remember whenever you are in large meeting areas.

August 10th – Wonder what it's really like to work in the bail bonds industry? Jesse Fellabaum, Director of Operations at A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds, gives insight into the day-to-day activities in the office. He also talks about what makes A 2nd Chance different. At the end of the day, the job is really about helping people, whether it's people needing bail, taking care of their employees or assisting those in need in the community.

Josh Fobes, SCRAM Director of Sales talks about how technologies have changed and improved in monitoring defendants and particularly advancements in mobile applications which allows for a broad spectrum of monitoring options that can be tailored to the individuals risk level. Ultimately , the goal of all defendant monitoring programs is to work to rehabilitate people so they don’t keep coming back to jail.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation Public & Governmental Affairs Director Nelly Miles discusses her background in forensic chemistry and how science is an essential part of solving crimes. Also hear how good communications and building up a “bank of community trust” leads to success working with Georgia’s citizens and other law enforcement entities throughout the state.  

Major Steve Gaynor and Sergeant Randall Finney of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office share how community engagement is key to reaching youth and stopping “repeat customers” in detention is key to building a stronger community. Detainees take part in rehabilitation services including 13 recent GED program graduates at the Cobb Jail.  

Hear a heartfelt and engaging discussion with Dog the Bounty Hunter, where he shares insights into his life, work and faith. The episode delves into Dog’s personal journey that led him to become a bounty hunter. He emphasizes the crucial role of bail bonds in the justice system and the personal accountability they promote.

Investigator Florence Stephenson, of the Cobb County District Attorney Office is a Criminal Investigator for Sexual Violent Crimes, but previously worked as their lead Investigator for White Collar Crime for two years. Inv. Stephenson worked for the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office for 10 years. Currently has been with Cobb County coming up on 12 years. She is a certified officer by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council. Previously, she worked as a Task Force Officer for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as well as the Criminal Investigations (White Collar) Division of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office. Inv. Stephenson was a Hostage Negotiator for the Cobb County SWAT Team. Investigator Stephenson has an MBA with a concentration of Public Administration and also obtained a Masters in Philosophy. Currently she is working on completing her PHD in Philosophy of Criminal Justice.

State Representative Devan Seabaugh’s own experience as a paramedic influenced his dedication to ensuring that first responders have access to mental health services. He discusses important new laws to keep communities safer as well as how he came to sponsor HB 451, dubbed the Ashley Wilson Law.    

The Cobb County DUI Court has not only changed hundreds of lives, but it is estimated to have saved more than $2.5 million in costs to the community since it was started in 2008. Program Coordinator Darcy Kamua and Assistant Coordinator Tiffany Jones share some of the highlights of the program that was recently awarded Model Court status because of the exemplary results in behavioral modification. 

A desire to help and treat people how they want to be treated drew Officer Chuck McPhilamy to law enforcement 10 years ago. Now serving as PIO with the Marietta Police Department, he was instrumental in starting the Public Safety Ambassador program – one of the first in Georgia. With 20% to 30% vacancies in law enforcement jobs, the ambassador program brings needed help in the community for situations that don’t require a uniformed police officer.