Behind The Lens

PODCAST: “Where did all my people go?” (Audio)

Black defendants face major barriers to securing representative juries, while a Lower Ninth Ward family farm wins a settlement after its property was mistakenly treated with pesticides.

by Carolyne Heldman July 30, 2026 Updated July 30, 2026

Glenn Davis, who spent nearly 14 years in prison before his murder conviction was overturned and he was later exonerated, says the underrepresentation of Black people on juries can prevent defendants from being judged by a true jury of their peers. (Photo by Gus Bennett / The Lens)

Jury rules against Orkin for spraying pesticide on New Orleans organic farm

In this episode of Behind The Lens, Bernard Smith reports on the significant hurdles Black defendants face in securing a jury of their peers, despite Black residents making up a majority of defendants while remaining underrepresented on juries. We also speak with La’Shance Perry about a Lower Ninth Ward family’s legal victory after a worker mistakenly treated their small organic farm with pesticides.

Guest: Reporters, Bernard Smith and La’Shance Perry

Host: Carolyne Heldman.

Theme music by Podington Bear. Additional music, “Rarified,” by Podington Bear.

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