Is This Legal?
Some dynamic duos solve crime, some commit crime, and some just like to talk about it. Get comfortable and let premier Denver criminal defense attorneys Russell Hebets and Colin McCallin break down legal issues for you in a lighthearted, easy-to-follow style. Whether you're looking for advice that might help you out of a jam, or you're interested in true crime events from around the country, or you just want to sound smart at a party, the guys at Is This Legal? have you covered. Credit to Jason Tohtz for his stellar sound engineering and epic original podcast compositions.
Ep 159 Charlie Kirk's Alleged Killer Tyler Robinson Goes to Prelim!
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Colin and Russ discuss the preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, who is the accused murderer of activist Charlie Kirk last September. Robinson faces several charges and Utah state prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Colin and Russ break down the case for the prosecution and what we can expect next in the case. Plus a new Is This Legal and a fresh DCOTW!
Ep 158 Alec Murdaugh Gets a New Trial
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Colin and Russ discuss the South Carolina Supreme Court decision that is granting formerly convicted murderer Alex Murdaugh a new trial regarding the deaths of his wife and son. The attorneys pick up where they left off in Ep 103 and discuss clerk Becky Hill, who's criminal misconduct is at the heart of the decision, and how her actions led to Murdaugh's convictions getting overturned. We revisit old predictions, make new ones, and have fun with a new Is This Legal and DCOTW along the way. Listen here!
Ep 157 Stefon Diggs Assault Trial Recap
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Colin and Russ discuss the trial and eventual acquittal that NFL wide receiver Stefon Diggs was subject to earlier this week in Massachusetts. The attorneys discuss the problems with the prosecution and their main witness Mila Adams and why the verdict was reached so quickly. Plus a new DCOTW and Is This Legal. Listen here!
Ep. 156 True Crime Recap, D4vd Arrested for Murder
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Colin and Russ break down several cases that have resolved since our last episode. The attorneys break down the Rex Heuermann plea deal, the Kouri Richins trial verdict, the sentence for "Ketamine Queen" Jazveen Sangha, and the pending charges against musician D4vd in California. As always you can test your smarts with a game of Is This Legal, and laugh out loud at the latest DCOTW. Check it out here.
Ep 155 Kouri Richins On Trial: Will She Be Convicted?
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Colin and Russ revisit the Kouri Richins case, continued from Ep. 117. Ms. Richins is on trial for murder, and the centerpiece witness for the prosecution is Ms. Richin's housekeeper who testified that she supplied Ms. Richins with the fentanyl she used to kill her husband. Colin and Russ discuss the strength of this testimony and how the defense is attacking the star witness' credibility. The attorneys also make their predictions about whether Ms. Richins will be convicted or not. Check it out!
Ep 154 Is An Austrian Man Guilty of Abandoning his Girlfriend to Die on a Mountain?
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Colin and Russ discuss the tragic but fascinating criminal case surrounding an Austrian man who attempted to climb Grossglockner mountain with his girlfriend. During their attempt, high winds and cold temperatures caused the girlfriend to die on the mountain after the man left her in order to get help. Can he be criminally responsible for her death, or was this a tragic accident? The Austrian courts have spoken, but did they get it right? Plus a new Is This Legal and a hilarious DCOTW!
Ep. 153 Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance- What We Think We Know
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Colin and Russ discuss the ongoing and harrowing details involving the possible abduction/kidnapping of 84 year old Nancy Guthrie, who is the mother of TODAY show anchor Savannah Guthrie. As of this recording, Nancy Guthrie remains missing. There is a lot we don't know, but Colin and Russ try to make sense of the few pieces of info related to the investigation that have been made public. As always, the fellas play Is This Legal with the listener and wrap up the show with a hilarious DCOTW.
Ep. 152 Luigi Mangione Gets Some Wins, Timothy Busfield Busted in Child Sex Case
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Happy 2026! Colin and Russ kick off the New Year by discussing the goings-on of murder suspect Luigi Mangione's state and federal charges for the fatal shooting of United Healthcare CEO Bryan Thompson. His attorneys are currently trying to suppress evidence in his case and are attempting to spare him the death penalty. Colin and Russ also discuss actor Timothy Busfield who is facing charges in New Mexico related to Criminal Contact with a Minor. A new DCOTW, a new Is This Legal, a new year! Come hang!
Ep. 151 Did Brian Walshe Murder and Dismember His Wife?
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Colin and Russ discuss the trial currently underway involving Brian Walshe, a Massachusetts man who is accused of murdering his wife, dismembering her, and disposing of her remains at various trash dumps. The jury trial started this week and Colin and Russ break down the case from the perspectives of the prosecution and defense. As always you can test your legal chops with a new Is This Legal, and a hilarious DCOTW. Check it out now!
Ep 150 Did U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan Screw Up the James Comey Indictment?
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Colin and Russ discuss the flurry of activity in the cases against former FBI director James Comey and NY Attorney General Leticia James that are being handled by the U.S. Dept. of Justice, specifically newly appointed U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan. Her lack of experience, mishandling of the grand jury documents and political ties to Trump and are all under the microscope as a judge decides whether or not the cases should go forward. Plus a great new Is This Legal and a very dumb DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 149 Chauncey Billups Among Those Charged In NBA Gambling Scandal
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Colin and Russ discuss the bombshell revelations that have come out in the pending criminal case against NBA coach and former MVP Chauncey Billups, NBA star Terry Rozier, and former player Damon Jones. Allegations include setting up rigged poker games that were backed by the Mafia and also include players selling non-public insider information to bettors and using this information to enrich themselves. We break it all down- stick around for the Is This Legal segment and a hilarious DCOTW! Happy Halloween!
Ep148 A Kentucky Judge Shot and Killed in His Chambers By the Elected Sheriff
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Colin and Russ discuss the high profile killing of Kentucky Judge Kevin Mullins by Sheriff Shawn "Mickey" Stines, which occurred in September of 2024 when Mr. Stines allegedly shot and killed Mullins while the two were in the Judge's chambers in the Letcher County Courthouse. Colin and Russ discuss the facts, charges and angles that the prosecution and defense will argue as the case meanders its way toward trial. Plus a fresh Is this Legal and a hilarious DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 147 A Body Found In D4vd's Tesla- What's Next?
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Colin and Russ discuss the current investigation involving hip hop artist David Anthony Burke, aka D4vd, who allegedly owns a Tesla in which the remains of a 14 year old girl were discovered after the car had been abandoned for several weeks. Is there enough evidence to charge him? What are his potential defenses? Can his explicit lyrics from some of his songs be used to prosecute him? Colin and Russ break it down, and as always make time for a new Is this Legal and a British DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 146 Luigi Mangione Update, Charlie Kirk's Killer Charged
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Colin and Russ provide updates regarding the case against alleged killer Luigi Mangione after a New York Judge dismissed the prosecution's top counts. The attorneys break down the judge's decision and how it will impact the case going forward. Later, they discuss the charges facing Tyler Robinson, the man arrested for the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Plus a new Is This Legal and a DCOTW from Georgia. Check it out!
Ep. 145 Donna Adelson Trial Heats Up
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Colin and Russ continue discussing the trial of alleged murderer Donna Adelson currently underway in Florida. They provide a general recap of the prosecution's case so far and discuss testimony regarding "the bump," which was a tactical ploy the FBI used to provoke Donna into meeting with her alleged co-conspirators. Did it rise to entrapment? Plus, a new Is This Legal and a fresh DCOTW!
Ep. 144 The Murder of Dan Markle- Donna Adelson's Trial Preview
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Colin and Russ discuss the case of Donna Adelson, a 75 year old Florida woman who is charged with First Degree Murder in a murder-for-hire plot that resulted in the death of her ex-son-in-law, Dan Markle, in 2014. The attorneys discuss what has transpired in the 11 years since the murder, the other co-defendants involved, and of course, way too early predictions about the verdict. Plus, a new DCOTW and Is This Legal, as always. Check it out!
Ep. 143 Killer Dentist James Craig Trial Recap
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Colin and Russ recap the happenings in the trial of dentist James Craig, who is accused of fatally poisoning his wife, Angela Craig. The lawyers have finished their closing arguments and the jury is deliberating. What did the prosecution argue? How did the defense respond? What are our predictions? Tune in to find out, and enjoy a new Is This Legal, and a hilarious Florida DCOTW!
Ep. 142 Diddy is Acquitted, Kohberger Pleads Guilty, Morphew Charged with Murder
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It's been a true crime bonanza over the last couple of weeks. Colin and Russ discuss the P. Diddy verdict and possible outcomes. They then talk about the surprising plea deal that Bryan Kohberger took to avoid the death penalty. They round up the discussion by talking Barry Morphew, who has been extradited to Colorado and charged with his wife Suzanne's murder. As always, a new Is This Legal and an international DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep. 141 SPECIAL EPISODE! Barry Morphew Arrested AGAIN!
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Colin and Russ break news as they discuss the arrest of Barry Morphew for First Degree Murder which happened today in Arizona. They discuss the new prosecution and the agencies involved. Plus, some quick thoughts on the Karen Read trial. Check it out!
EP. 140 Karen Read Trial: Defense Rests- What Do We Think?
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Colin and Russ break down the Karen Read trial now that the defense has rested. Was Karen not testifying the right decision? Should they have called Michael Proctor or Brian Albert? Did they do enough to secure an acquittal? Did the prosecution make a huge blunder that might cost their case? The fellas cover it all. Plus a new DCOTW and an Is This Legal. Give a listen!
Ep. 139 Karen Read Trial Part Deux: Prosecution Rests- How Did They Do?
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Colin and Russ discuss the second trial of murder suspect Karen Read, currently underway in Massachusetts. They discuss the new prosecutor handling the case and how his presentation of the evidence was quite different than that of the first trial. They also discuss the defense strategy and what we can expect as they open their case. Plus a new DCOTW and Is This Legal! Check it out!
Ep. 138 P. Diddy Goes to Trial
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Colin and Russ discuss the trial of P.Diddy which just started earlier this week in Manhattan. They talk about the testimony of prosecution star witness Cassie Ventura, a long time partner of P.Diddy. They also forecast the rest of the trial and discuss the millions of dollars in assets that are subject to forfeiture by the U.S. Government, and what that means for victims who are currently suing him. Plus, Is This Legal and a new DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep. 137 Judge Hannah Dugan Arrested for Thwarting ICE: Will the Charges Stick?
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Colin and Russ discuss the unprecedented arrest of a sitting Wisconsin judge who is facing federal charges for her role in allegedly assisting an undocumented litigant in her courtroom avoid being arrested by ICE officials. They break down the charges Judge Dugan faces and assess the strengths and weaknesses for both the prosecution and defense, and of course, make their predictions. Plus a new Is This Legal and a hilarious DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep. 136 Kohberger Heating Up- What You Need to Know
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Colin and Russ update listeners on the latest with the Bryan Kohberger case. Kohberger is accused of murdering 4 college students in Idaho in 2022. His trial is set to begin in August of 2025, and Colin and Russ discuss the voluminous pretrial motions hearings and other litigation that will determine what evidence will be admitted in the trial. As always, we play Is This Legal and have a brand new Georgia DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 135 Did A Colorado Dentist Poison His Wife and Hire a Hitman to Kill the Lead Detective?
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Colin and Russ discuss the fascinating case against Dr. James Craig, a Colorado dentist who is accused of murdering his wife in 2023. His legal challenges were complicated in late 2024 when he was additionally charged with attempting to hire a fellow inmate to kill the lead detective investigating him. Colin and Russ break down the evidence, possible defenses and make their predictions about the outcome of the case. Plus, a new Is This Legal scenario and a new DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep. 134 New York Doctor Faces Wrath From Louisiana and Texas Over Abortion Pills
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Colin and Russ discuss the case of a New York doctor and a Louisiana mom who are facing criminal charges for their roles in providing abortion medication to a 17 year old girl, who suffered medical complications as a result. The case pits the states of Louisiana and Texas, which have very restrictive abortion laws against the state of New York, which shields medical providers from prosecution in other states. Colin and Russ break down the case and discuss what's next. Plus, a new Is This Legal and a new DCOTW. Tune in!
Ep. 133 The Tangled Web Ensnaring NYC Mayor Eric Adams
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Colin and Russ discuss the charges and subsequent dismissal of those charges facing embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams. We discuss why he was originally charged with bribery and wire fraud, and why those charges were dismissed by the Department of Justice last week. Colin and Russ also discuss the resignation of 8 federal prosecutors in the wake of this decision. Plus a new game of Is This Legal, and a brand new DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 132 I.C.E. Raids- What Rights Do Illegal Immigrants Have, If Any?
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Colin and Russ discuss the Immigration Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) Raids that are currently underway in major cities in the US. How are the raids being conducted? Who are they targeting? Are they going into schools and churches? When do they need a warrant? What rights do immigrants have under the Constitution, if any? Colin and Russ break it all down. Plus a new Is This Legal and DCOTW!
Ep. 131 CBI Scientist Missy Woods Charged With Over 100 Felonies
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Colin and Russ discuss the new charges facing former Colorado Bureau of Investigation Analyst Yvonne "Missy" Woods, who provided expert DNA analysis and testing over a 30 year career. Ms. Woods is accused of deleting and manipulating DNA data from over 1000 cases in her tenure at CBI. Colin and Russ discuss the case, the reverberations it will have over the Colorado criminal justice system, and how CBI can regain public trust. Plus a new Is This Legal and a DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep. 130 The Murder of Johnny Wactor
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Colin and Russ are back with their first episode of 2025! The discuss the tragic murder of actor Johnny Wactor who was allegedly shot and killed in May of 2024 by an 18 year old catalytic-converter thief and his two accomplices in Los Angeles, CA. One of the accomplices is charged with murder while the other is not. Colin and Russ discuss these charging disparities and whether the evidence supports them. There are also links to gang activity in the case, and they discuss the Florencia 13 gang. They also discuss why "felony murder" was not charged by t...
Ep. 129 Luigi Mangione- What You Need to Know
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Colin and Russ discuss the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson which was allegedly committed by Luigi Mangione. The attorneys walk through the NYPD/FBI investigation that led to Mangione's arrest. They also discuss the murder charges he faces, and what defenses he may have available. Plus, a fun Is This Legal and a brand new DCOTW! We hope you have a Merry Christmas- Thanks for listening!
Ep. 128 Daniel Penny: Hero or Killer?
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Colin and Russ discuss the homicide charges facing ex-marine and architecture student Daniel Penny, who placed a choke hold on an erraticly behaving and possibly threatening NYC subway passenger named Jordan Neely. Neely was a 30 year old African American street performer who was homeless at the time of his death. Penny's trial has concluded and the jury is deliberating the case. Does he have valid defenses? Did he act reasonably? Colin and Russ make their predictions about the case. Plus, a new Is This Legal and a hilarious DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep.127 Will the Menendez Brothers Be Set Free After 33 Years?
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Colin and Russ discuss the cases of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989 in Los Angeles, CA. Colin and Russ talk about their original trials that led to their convictions, and why the case is back in the spotlight in 2024, and why they could have their life sentences reduced. Plus, a new game of Is This Legal and West Coast DCOTW contributed by Colin's mom. Check it out!
Ep. 126 Texas Execution Halted! A Look at the Robert Roberson Case
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Colin and Russ discuss the case of Robert Roberson, who has been in prison in Texas awaiting execution after his convictions in the death of his infant daughter in 2022. He was convicted on a shaken baby syndrome theory, which has been called into question in recent years as being junk science by researchers. Colin and Russ discuss the new legal challenges being heard in the case and what this means for Roberson's future. Plus a new Is This Legal and a brand new international DCOTW! Listen here.
Ep. 125 More Diddy Drama; Tina Peters Pounded
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Colin and Russ pick up where they left off in Ep. 124 and continue discussing the criminal charges against P. Diddy. They talk about attorney Tony Buzbee, who claims to represent 120 of P. Diddy's victims, and also discuss the prospects of Diddy making bail. Also, Colin and Russ discuss the sentencing of Tina Peters. As always, a new Is This Legal and a Georgia DCOTW. Listen here!
Ep.124 P. Diddy- Sex, Drugs, and Freak Offs
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Colin and Russ discuss the pending federal criminal charges against Sean "P. Diddy" Combs related to sex trafficking, sexual abuse and racketeering. They cover the charges and discuss the salacious allegations related to the "freak off" events that P. Diddy allegedly organized and sometimes participated in. Plus, a new Is this Legal and a new DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 123 Tyreek Hill's Traffic Stop, Linda Stanley Disbarred
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Colin and Russ tackle the aggressive traffic stop of Tyreek Hill, the star wide receiver from the Miami Dolphins, at the hands of the Miami Dade PD. The stop also involved players Calais Campbell and Jonnu Smith. What could the police have done better to de-escalate the situation? What could Tyreek have done differently? What lessons can we all learn? Also, a new Linda Stanley update. With a new Is This Legal and hilarious DCOTW, you've run out of excuses to not listen. Check it out!
Ep. 122 5 Indicted in Matthew Perry's Overdose Death
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Colin and Russ break down the criminal charges that 5 people face in the aftermath of Friends actor Matthew Perry's death in late 2023. They discuss drug dealer Jasveen Sangha, aka the Ketamine Queen, two doctors who are alleged to have illegally provided Matthew and his assistant with ketamine, and others. Plus, a new Is This Legal and a new DCOTW. Check it out!
Ep. 121 Tina Peters FINALLY Goes to Trial
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After years of firing lawyers, suing government agencies and even appealing to the United States Supreme Court, former Mesa County Clerk and election denier Tina Peters finally goes on trial on charges stemming from her conduct in 2021, where she allegedly used her powers of office to undermine the 2020 election results. Colin and Russ pick up where we left off in Episode 82 and cover it all, including some updated predictions. Plus, Is This Legal, and a new DCOTW!
Ep. 120 The Crazy Conclusion of Alec Baldwin's Manslaughter Trial
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Colin and Russ discuss the bonkers conclusion of Alec Baldwin's manslaughter trial that was dismissed by the presiding judge last week in New Mexico. Colin and Russ detail the prosecutorial misconduct that plagued the case, culminating in a hearing where the lead prosecutor called herself to the witness stand, and her co-counsel quit the case in the middle of trial. Break out the popcorn and take a listen to the breakdown of this nutty case. Plus, a new Is This Legal and DCOTW. Listen here!
