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INSIDE THE VILLAGE: Is our justice system broken? We ask a judge

This week on the podcast: Norm Douglas spent his career in court, first as an Ontario prosecutor, then a judge. Now retired, he's written a compelling book that pulls back the curtain on criminal justice

Welcome back to Inside the Village, a one-of-a-kind podcast where all news is local — and no topic is off-limits.

On this week's episode: You be the judge.

Norm Douglas spent his career inside Ontario courtrooms, first as a Crown prosecutor, then a judge. From both sides of the bench, he was immersed in a number of high-profile cases over the years, including the prosecution of a man who murdered a 14-year-old girl inside a high school bathroom.

Now retired, Douglas has written a unique book about his courtroom career. You Be The Judge chronicles 24 cases he was involved in — and as the title suggests, asks readers to make the final call on each one.

If you're fascinated by the law, this is the episode for you. Along with discussing his book, Douglas weighs in on some hot-button topics, including the state of the Canada's bail system and Premier Doug Ford’s pursuit of “like-minded” judges.

On a lighter note, he also talks about one of his other passions: being an Elvis impersonator.

Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.

Every episode is can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.

Have something to say? You can reach us at [email protected].

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