Podcast Summary: How L.A. Sheriff Deputy Gangs Terrorize the Public: 5CAST w/ Andrew Callaghan (#5) ft. Janet Asante

Release Date: May 11, 2025
Host: Andrew Callaghan
Guest: Janet Asante
Organization Represented: Justice LA

Introduction

In this compelling episode of 5CAST with Andrew Callaghan, host Andrew Callaghan delves deep into a grave issue plaguing Los Angeles: the presence and impact of gangs within the L.A. Sheriff's Department. Joined by Janet Asante, an activist and communications manager at Dignity and Power Now, they explore the severe human rights abuses, corruption, and systemic failures associated with deputy gangs and the notorious Men's Central Jail (MCJ).

Defining Gangs and Deputy Gangs

Andrew begins by outlining the official definition of a gang as per former California Attorney General Kamala Harris—a group of three or more individuals committed to a common criminal purpose. He contrasts traditional gangs with groups like the Juggalos, highlighting the legal implications of being labeled a gang member, such as enhanced sentencing.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Callaghan [00:56]: "We're just a family. Which I agree with, man."

Impact of Gang Designation

The conversation shifts to the consequences of being designated as part of a gang, emphasizing the harsh sentencing enhancements that can significantly increase prison time. Andrew references a previous episode discussing Crip Max and the federal sentencing enhancements that adversely affected his case.

Deputy Gangs within the L.A. Sheriff's Department

Janet Asante provides an in-depth look at the existence of gangs within the L.A. Sheriff's Department, such as the Banditos, Rattlesnakes, Jump Out Boys, Grim Reapers, Wayside Whities, and Compton Executioners. These groups are implicated in violent acts, intimidation, and corruption, contributing to a toxic environment within the department.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [07:35]: "Sheriff gangs continue to operate and threaten."

Andrew recounts the tragic case of Anthony Vargas, a 21-year-old who was fatally shot by deputies allegedly affiliated with the Banditos. Despite evidence suggesting the gun was planted, the court dismissed all charges against the deputies, highlighting systemic bias and corruption.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Callaghan [03:42]: "Deputies with threatening names like the Banditos, the Cavemen, the Executioners."

Men's Central Jail (MCJ): Conditions and Abuse

Andrew and Janet shift focus to Men's Central Jail, LA’s largest and most controversial incarceration facility. They discuss the deplorable conditions within MCJ, including excessive inmate violence, neglect of mental health needs, and alleged cover-ups of deaths caused by deputy gangs.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [32:22]: "It's truly horrible."

Janet shares harrowing stories, such as the case of John Horton, whose death was initially ruled a suicide but later changed to undetermined after an independent autopsy revealed signs of severe physical trauma inflicted by deputies.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [33:59]: "John Horton was killed by deputy gang members... his entire body was brutalized."

Activism and Efforts to Reform

Janet outlines the mission of Justice LA, aiming to shut down MCJ, reform the police department, end poverty, and provide justice for victims of deputy gangs. She emphasizes the need for community investment in mental health care, housing, and other supportive services as alternatives to incarceration.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [15:56]: "We're trying to divest from carceral systems to invest in things like mental health care, housing and the like."

Andrew and Janet discuss the challenges of implementing these reforms, including bureaucratic obstacles, misallocation of funds, and the powerful unions defending corrupt practices within the Sheriff's Department.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [43:35]: "There's a mishandling of funds on the regular."

The Role of Media and Public Perception

The duo examines how media portrayal influences public perception of criminals and the incarcerated, often dehumanizing individuals and justifying harsh treatments. Janet highlights the disparity in media coverage, where systemic issues and personal stories of those affected are overshadowed by sensationalized crime reporting.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [22:43]: "Language plays a huge part... Humanizing someone takes effort."

Proposals and Legislative Actions

They delve into recent legislative measures like Proposition 47 and Proposition 36, analyzing their impact on jail populations and societal behavior. Janet criticizes these propositions for not addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of resources, instead perpetuating the cycle of incarceration.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [37:14]: "Crime is something defined by the state."

Closing the Loop: Jail Closure and Future Steps

Janet shares hopeful developments, such as the establishment of a jail closure implementation team tasked with executing recommendations to close Men's Central Jail and invest in community-based alternatives. She underscores the importance of community involvement and sustained advocacy to ensure meaningful reforms.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [65:27]: "It's been an entire process... we need mental health care here in LA County."

Andrew encourages listeners to get involved through organizations like Justice LA, emphasizing that collective action is vital for systemic change.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Callaghan [56:47]: "Getting involved on a local level is a real way to make a difference."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a passionate call to action, urging listeners to support movements aimed at dismantling the entrenched carceral systems and deputy gangs within the L.A. Sheriff's Department. Janet Asante reaffirms her optimism, highlighting the progress made and the potential for transformative change through active community engagement.

Notable Quote:

Janet Asante [86:07]: "It's happening right here in the United States, not somewhere else in some other country... get involved in your backyard."

Final Thoughts

This episode of 5CAST w/ Andrew Callaghan serves as a critical exposé on the corruption and brutality within the L.A. Sheriff's Department and Men's Central Jail. Through engaging dialogue and firsthand accounts, Andrew and Janet shed light on the urgent need for systemic reform, community investment, and collective activism to combat the pervasive issue of deputy gangs terrorizing the public.

For listeners seeking to take action or learn more, Janet Asante encourages involvement with Justice LA through their virtual actions and social media platforms, emphasizing that every effort counts in the fight against systemic injustice.