Matthew Cox | Inside True Crime Podcast SNITCH ON JOEY MERLINO or LIVE LIFE IN PRISON | Adam Clausen
Jun 14, 2025
This week’s guest is Adam Clausen, who survived a daunting 213-year sentence and the intense pressure to turn against notorious mob boss Joey Merlino. Adam shares his journey from promising athlete to a life of crime and the harsh realities of prison. He recounts captivating tales of loyalty, betrayal, and trials, alongside humorous moments in correctional facilities. Adam's transformation through education and resilience shines through as he discusses navigating life after prison and his commitment to social justice, leaving listeners inspired by his remarkable story.
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Illegal Pretrial Identification Use
- Pretrial identifications were done using single photos with FBI numbers, violating legal protocols.
- This flawed evidence strategy threatened fair trial rights and was challenged in court.
Witness List Narrowed by Judge
- Prosecutors planned to use many witnesses without disclosing identities prior to trial.
- The judge limited witnesses to those identified within a 20-minute pretrial conference, changing trial dynamics.
Criminal Justice Reform Partial Relief
- 2018's First Step Act revised gun sentencing but lacked retroactivity.
- Compassionate release reforms partially restored court's power to grant relief from harsh sentences.
