Virginia Police and Gangs His Amazing Story, Special Episode. Virginia’s fight against the notorious MS-13 gang has found a powerful voice in retired Police Sergeant Merritt Cassell, whose incredible journey from orphan in El Salvador to dedicated law enforcement officer is captivating audiences. He is our guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, you can listen to it as a free podcast on our website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or most major podcast platforms.
His insights into gang investigations and his personal journey are the cornerstone of his podcast, Brownie in Blue, where stories from behind the badge come alive. Check out and follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Newsbreak, Medium and most all social media platforms.
A Career of Service and Sacrifice
Merritt Cassell served the Fairfax County Police Department for over 20 years, rising to the rank of sergeant. His assignment to the department’s Gang Unit brought him face-to-face with the ultra-violent MS-13, a gang infamous for its brutal tactics. During his tenure, Cassell investigated numerous crimes, including murders that shocked the region and exposed the gang’s inner workings. Virginia Police and Gangs His Amazing Story. You'll find supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium, Newsbreak and Blogspot.
Cassell’s dedication extended beyond police work. As a bilingual professional, he bridged cultural and linguistic gaps in sensitive investigations involving El Salvadoran gang members, often delving into the gang’s transnational ties and its impact on Virginia communities.
A Personal Tale of Triumph
Cassell’s story is as compelling as the cases he worked on. Born in El Salvador, he was orphaned as a child and adopted by an American couple. His journey from an immigrant child to a law enforcement officer epitomizes resilience and determination. Listen to the interview as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast website, also available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most major podcast outlets.
Now retired, Cassell shares his experiences through Brownie in Blue, a podcast dedicated to exploring the challenges and triumphs of diverse law enforcement officers. “I want to shed light on the truths behind the uniform,” Cassell says, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by those who serve. Virginia Police and Gangs His Amazing Story. Follow the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and podcast on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Newsbreak, Medium and most all social media platforms.
MS-13: A Persistent Threat
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, originated in Los Angeles during the 1980s to protect Salvadoran immigrants. Over the decades, it evolved into a transnational criminal organization notorious for violent crimes, including murders, human trafficking, and drug distribution.
In a recent trial, MS-13 member Elmer Alas Candray was convicted in Northern Virginia for a series of brutal murders committed between 2018 and 2022. The gruesome details, including stabbings and dismemberments, underscored the gang’s ruthless operations. It is available as a free podcast on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.
A Heartbreaking Loss in the Line of Duty
Virginia’s battle with MS-13 has also claimed its heroes. The Virginia Department of Corrections recently mourned the loss of Rivan, a K-9 officer who died protecting staff and inmates at Sussex I State Prison. During a violent attack by MS-13 affiliated inmates, Rivan’s bravery saved lives but cost the dog his own.
The attack also highlighted the gang’s continued presence in correctional facilities. All involved inmates were confirmed to be undocumented individuals from Central America, further emphasizing the complex challenges faced by law enforcement. Virginia Police and Gangs His Amazing Story. Keep informed by following the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, MeWe, Pinterest, Newsbreak, Medium and other social media outlets.
Spreading Awareness Through Media
Cassell’s Brownie in Blue podcast is on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, offering a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement. From stories of camaraderie to tales of personal struggle, the podcast resonates with listeners on Newsbreak and Medium, providing a humanized perspective of the badge. Virginia Police and Gangs His Amazing Story.
Cassell’s journey and his insights into MS-13 investigations continue to inspire. His message of resilience and dedication not only educates the public about gang violence but also celebrates the men and women who risk their lives to keep communities safe. Platforms like the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, Apple Podcasts and Spotify make these stories more accessible.
For more stories of bravery and sacrifice, follow Brownie in Blue on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or tune in on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Stay informed with the latest news from Virginia on Newsbreak and Medium.
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Attributions
Brownie in Blue on Apple Podcasts
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Retired Police Sergeant, Music Radio Personality, Talk Radio Show Host, Podcaster and Producer
John J. Wiley is a retired Police Sergeant turned radio personality. He has been a full time FM Music Radio DJ since 2005. In 2017 he founded the Law Enforcement Today Podcast, in a partnership with Robert Greenberg of Law Enforcement Today. The show is now named the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast.
Within a couple months a radio station heard an episode of the podcast and asked him to create a radio version, which he did. It has been syndicated since the Spring of 2017 and has numerous affiliate radio stations across the US.