West Va Public Defense w/Dana Eddy and Stacey Fragile
When it comes to the public defense system, simple human connection is more important than you might think. Dana Eddy, Executive Director of West Virginia Public Defender Services, and Stacey Fragile, Chief Public Defender of the 10th Judicial Circuit, are here to prove just that. In this week’s episode, Dana and Stacey speak about their community outreach efforts in the state and how they are making a difference at a local level. They share their arguments for a holistic defense model and lessening the time people spend in the criminal justice system. You’ll learn that by connecting with people individually and focusing on the root of the problems, the entire public defense system could be changed for good.
Key Topics and Takeaways:
The structure of public defense in West Virginia and Dana’s role in it. [8:08]
Stacey’s role in West Virginia Public Defense. [12:34]
Community outreach programs in West Virginia. [18:57]
Drug decriminalization in the state. [28:25]
Public defense staffing issues in West Virginia. [49:56]
Stacey & Dana’s biggest goals for public defense in the state. [54:44]
Guests:
Dana Eddy, Executive Director of West Virginia Public Defender Services
Stacey Fragile, Chief Public Defender of the 10th Judicial Circuit
Resources:
West Virginia Public Defender Services
Spangenberg Report West Virginia
West Virginia Annual Reports:
https://pds.wv.gov/Documents/FY18%20-%20Annual%20Report.pdf
https://pds.wv.gov/Documents/FY17%20-%20Annual%20Report.pdf
https://pds.wv.gov/Documents/FY16%20-%20Annual%20Report.pdf
Memorable Quotes:
“It’s hard to say in the state of West Virginia that we need more money. I do think we need to spend it more intelligently.” (14:17, Dana)
“It’s always going to be a challenge to get the community to accept individuals who have been convicted of criminal charges that carry with them the stigma of either a sex offense or violent offense.” (26:31, Dana)
“The stigma is still there locally with the citizens in terms of all drugs are bad drugs, and until that changes, I don’t see us legalizing.” (32:45, Stacey)
“If I have one thing on my Christmas wishlist for this season, it would be that we look at a different mechanism for appointing counsel to these cases, but it's going to be hard to convince local judges that they need to give up out of authority, that control, over their courtroom.” (47:52, Dana)
“What I would say is there’s a lack of people who are really dedicated to public service and the public mission.” (52:15, Dana)
“We have to remove the stigma regarding mental health or we’re never going to make progress as a society.” (1:09:14, Stacey)
