# True Crime: The Court of Public Opinion - Will Smith vs. Cardell Hayes - Self-Defense or Excessive Force?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/alexis-knight-l-facts-first-clarity-always-7016559/true-crime-the-court-of-public-opinion-will-smith-vs-cardell-hayes-self-defense-or-excessive-force
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/alexis-knight-l-facts-first-clarity-always-7016559/true-crime-the-court-of-public-opinion-will-smith-vs-cardell-hayes-self-defense-or-excessive-force.md
Podcast: [Alexis Knight l Facts First. Clarity Always.](https://stenobird.com/podcast/alexis-knight-l-facts-first-clarity-always-7016559)
Published: 2025-07-22T23:00:07+00:00
Episode link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/true-crime-the-court-of-public-opinion-will-smith-vs-cardell-hayes-self-defense-or-excessive-force--67078676
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/67078676/ss_willsmith_done_spkr.mp3
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Duration seconds: 2264

## Resource

True Crime: The Court of Public Opinion - Will Smith vs. Cardell Hayes - Self-Defense or Excessive Force? In this episode, Alexis Knight delves into the case of Cardell Hayes, whose encounter with former NFL star Will Smith turned fatal on a New Orleans street. Was Hayes’s response to the perceived threat a legitimate act of self-defense, or did it cross the line into excessive force? The tragic death of Will Smith left the community torn, with divided opinions on fear, responsibility, and justice. As we unpack the facts, testimonies, and court arguments, you’ll have the chance to decide: Was justice served, or does this case reveal deeper complexities about self-defense and accountability? Tune in to explore a story that continues to raise questions about where the line between protection and aggression truly lies. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/alexis-knight-l-facts-first-clarity-always--6292057/support .

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