Ep 3. The Oath

In Life and Death Row season 3 episode 3 titled The Oath, viewers are once again taken on an emotional journey through the United States criminal justice system. The episode explores the story of two co-defendants, Jabrai Jordan Copney and his accomplices, Adam Bradley and Jason Aquino. The trio is accused of killing a fellow student, Robert Dias, during an attempted robbery.

As the trial unfolds, viewers get an inside look at the complexities of criminal trials, including the challenges that arise when dealing with multiple defendants. The story also highlights the controversial issue of mandatory minimum sentencing laws. Copney, who was only 18 years old at the time of the crime, is facing a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Throughout the episode, the viewers hear from family members of both the victim and the accused, as well as from the lawyers and judges involved in the case. These interviews provide a range of perspectives on the crime, the criminal justice system, and the impact that the case has had on the people involved.

In addition to the legal aspects of the case, The Oath also delves into the personal lives of the accused. Copney's mother and grandmother are interviewed, and viewers see the impact that his arrest has had on his family. Aquino's girlfriend is also interviewed, and viewers get a sense of the emotional toll that the trial is taking on her.

As the trial comes to a close, viewers are left to ponder the very complex and difficult issues raised by this case. While there is no doubt that a terrible crime was committed, the question remains: is a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole really the appropriate punishment for an 18-year-old who was an accomplice to the crime?

Overall, Life and Death Row season 3 episode 3 is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the American criminal justice system. It offers a nuanced look at the complexities of criminal trials, the impact of mandatory minimum sentencing laws, and the emotional toll that these cases take on all involved.