Executive Board
D. Scott Poggensee
President
About scott
Scott Poggensee is a distinguished private investigator renowned for his unwavering commitment to justice and the meticulous pursuit of truth. As the Supervising Investigator at the Conviction Integrity Group, he leads a dedicated team focused on ensuring that all convictions adhere to the highest legal standards, embodying the constitutional guarantee of fair and equal treatment under the law.
With many years of investigative experience, Mr. Poggensee has earned a reputation for excellence in both criminal and civil investigations. His meticulous attention to detail and steadfast dedication to uncovering the truth have made him a trusted figure among individuals, businesses, and legal professionals alike. Whether handling high-profile cases or sensitive personal matters, Scott navigates complex situations with discretion and integrity, ensuring his clients receive the information necessary to make informed decisions.
Beyond his investigative work, Mr. Poggensee is the creator and host of the American Justice Podcast, a platform that brings attention to cases where the American criminal justice system has faltered. Through in-depth analysis and storytelling, the podcast sheds light on wrongful convictions and systemic issues within the justice system, fostering public awareness and dialogue.
Mr. Poggensee is producing the documentary “Texas Justice: Brandon Woodruff,” which examines the case of Brandon Woodruff, a Texas man convicted of murdering his parents in 2005. The film highlights the lack of concrete evidence and suggests that Woodruff’s conviction was influenced by homophobia, aiming to bring attention to potential miscarriages of justice within the legal system.
Scott Poggensee’s extensive expertise as a private investigator and his steadfast commitment to justice make him an exceptional choice for President of the Board of Directors for the Truth & Justice Project. His proven ability to inspire collaboration, his deep understanding of the challenges within the justice system, and his passion for truth and accountability uniquely position him to lead the board in advancing the organization’s critical mission.
Deborah Kidd
Secretary
About Kidd
Debbie graduated from North Texas State University with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. She was accepted by the Meadows Foundation along with a small, elite group of classmates known as “Meadows Scholars”. She graduated Summa Cum Laude in her field.
She has been the Executive Assistant with the Conviction Integrity Group for several years. Before that, she wrote 19 episodes about wrongful convictions for the American Justice Podcast. One of those episodes was heard by the victim’s family who left a comment saying they were grateful for the balanced presentation of the facts. Ms. Kidd has been eager for the opportunity to take pro-bono cases with CIG so that innocent inmates without the financial means to receive help have a source to turn to. Justice and fairness are her passions.
Prior to her work with CIG, she has been a retail manager, a pharmacy technician, and an elementary school teacher. She has raised three children and has been married to her loving husband for almost 40 years.
Roberto Arias
Treasurer
About Roberto
Rob Arias is an accomplished entrepreneur who stands out for his unwavering commitment to mentoring and uplifting the community, especially in understanding complex financial systems and economic models. As a Loan Officer, Rob has funded over $250,000,000 in mortgages for clients ranging from high-net-worth individuals to young people buying their first home.
As the economy turned into the post pandemic world, Rob made the transition from the corporate world to focus on improving financial literacy as many people were severely hurt by the economic challenges. He specializes in mentoring clients with better money and credit management, ways to increase their business and increase their overall wealth.
As a minority and immigrant himself, Rob works with minorities and people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. He helps them adapt to the different economic rules and systems that exist in our country and helps them make strategic decisions to further their success. His passion for helping minorities further extends as he works with the Conviction Integrity Group, where he helps non-English-speaking families navigate the process of obtaining justice for their family members.
Rob holds a bachelor’s degree in Emerging Media and Communications from the University of Texas at Dallas with a further focus in Public Relations which he studied at the University of Wollongong in Australia. He is passionate about traveling and meeting new people.
Patrick Weatherford
Vice President
About Patrick
Patrick James Weatherford is a dedicated professional whose diverse background in military medicine and client relations positions him as a valuable asset to the Truth & Justice Project. As Vice President of the Board, Patrick brings a unique combination of skills, leadership, and firsthand experience that align perfectly with the organization’s mission.
Patrick honorably served as a medic in the United States Army, where his service was distinguished by his exceptional bravery and commitment to saving lives under the most challenging conditions. He was awarded the prestigious Combat Medical Badge for providing medical care to a casualty under direct enemy fire while serving in Afghanistan. Over the course of his deployment, Patrick was involved in over 42 instances of direct combat, demonstrating remarkable resilience, composure, and dedication to his fellow soldiers. His military service provides his ability to perform under extreme pressure and his unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.
Transitioning from military service to the field of wrongful conviction advocacy, Patrick has effectively utilized his skills in crisis management, empathy, and meticulous attention to detail. At the Conviction Integrity Group, he collaborates closely with a team of researchers and private investigators to ensure that all defendants have received a fair trial, aligning with the organization’s mission to uphold constitutional rights and justice.
In his capacity as Client Relations Director, Patrick serves as the primary liaison between clients and the investigative team. His responsibilities include guiding clients through the complex process of case review, addressing concerns, and ensuring that communication remains transparent and supportive. His background in military medical service enhances his ability to approach each case with compassion and a nuanced understanding of the human aspects involved.
Patrick’s unique combination of military medical experience and client relations expertise brings a multifaceted perspective to the Truth & Justice Project. His proven ability to handle high-stress situations with composure and his dedication to advocating for those who may have been wrongfully convicted align seamlessly with the organization’s mission. As Vice President of the Board, Patrick is poised to contribute significantly to strategic discussions, particularly in areas concerning client advocacy and support services.
Board Members
John Nation
About John
John D. Nation is a Dallas-based attorney specializing in appellate and criminal law, with additional experience in civil, family, and commercial litigation. He graduated from Southern Methodist University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1974 and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Houston in 1979. Admitted to practice in Texas since 1979, he is also licensed to appear before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, the Texas Eastern District Court, and the U.S. Tax Court. Mr. Nation has a strong focus on appellate cases, where he challenges lower court decisions in both civil and criminal contexts. His work also includes criminal defense and family law, demonstrating a broad legal skill set. Feedback from past clients on public review platforms reflect a stellar reputation. Reviews praise his work in appellate cases, his knowledge of criminal law, and his attention to detail.
Mr. Nation’s extensive experience in appellate law makes him a notable figure in legal circles for cases requiring detailed knowledge of appeals procedures. His experience and expertise will bring a much needed perspective to the Board of Directors involving the legal matters.
Betty Simons
About Betty
Betty Simons is a distinguished private investigator whose unwavering commitment to justice and child protection has significantly impacted the fight against human trafficking and the recovery of missing and exploited children. As the founder and CEO of Valor Investigations, a woman and veteran-owned firm, Betty has demonstrated exceptional leadership and investigative acumen.
A graduate of the University of North Texas’s Professional Development Institute, Betty has pursued extensive training in investigative techniques, equipping her with the skills necessary to tackle complex cases. Her expertise is further recognized through her membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, underscoring her dedication to upholding legal standards and advocating for the vulnerable.
In 2015, following the tragic loss of her sister, Nita Moseley, Betty co-founded NMA, a non-profit organization focused on the recovery of missing and exploited children. This initiative was not only a tribute to her sister’s memory but also a testament to Betty’s resolve in combating child exploitation. Under her leadership, NMA has achieved remarkable success, with 44 out of 45 recoveries, highlighting her effectiveness and dedication.
Betty’s collaborative approach has led her to work alongside various non-profits, advocacy groups, Child Protective Services, and law enforcement agencies across the Houston area. By providing her expertise in locating missing children and assisting families and victims of violent crimes, she has become an indispensable ally in the fight against human trafficking. Additionally, Betty sponsors private investigator licenses for the Texas Counter Trafficking Initiative, further extending her impact in this critical field.
Ms. Simons’s relentless pursuit of justice and her compassionate approach to victims make Betty Simons an exemplary candidate for the Conviction Integrity Group (CIG) Representative to the Board of the Truth & Justice Project. Her extensive experience in criminal defense investigations, trial consulting, and appellate cases will provide invaluable insights into the organization’s mission of ensuring justice and fairness within the system.
Beyond her professional achievements, Betty is a dedicated wife and mother of three. She cherishes spending her free time traveling with her family and supporting her children’s activities, embodying the values of family and community that drive her endeavors.
Betty Simons’s profound expertise, personal dedication, and proven track record in recovering missing and exploited children position her as an ideal CIG Representative. Her appointment to the Board of the Truth & Justice Project would undoubtedly strengthen the organization’s efforts to promote systemic reforms and prevent future injustices.
Richard Ray
About Richard
Richard Ray is a distinguished journalist whose nearly five-decade-long career in television news has left an indelible mark on the Dallas-Fort Worth media landscape. Serving as an anchor and reporter for KDFW-TV (Channel 4) for 36 years, Ray’s dedication to journalistic excellence and his profound storytelling abilities have garnered him widespread respect and recognition.
Throughout his tenure, Ray has been honored with five Emmy Awards, a testament to his exceptional reporting and commitment to delivering impactful news stories. His accolades include recognition for his work on “JFK: The Dallas Tapes” and “Lone Star Adventures,” where he served as anchor, producer, and writer.
One of the most pivotal moments in Ray’s career was his comprehensive coverage of the Branch Davidian standoff near Waco, Texas, in 1993. This 51-day siege, which culminated in a tragic fire, was a complex and sensitive event that required meticulous reporting. Ray’s on-the-ground coverage provided viewers with critical insights into the unfolding situation, demonstrating his ability to handle high-pressure reporting with accuracy and empathy.
In May 2019, Ray announced his retirement from KDFW-TV, concluding a remarkable chapter in his professional life. His departure marked the end of an era for Dallas-Fort Worth viewers who had come to rely on his trusted reporting.
Richard Ray’s extensive experience in journalism, coupled with his deep understanding of media dynamics, makes him an ideal candidate for the Board of Directors of the Truth & Justice Project. His proven track record in investigative reporting and his ability to navigate complex news events would provide invaluable insights into media relations and public communication strategies. Moreover, his commitment to truth and integrity aligns seamlessly with the organization’s mission to promote justice and accountability.
Richard Ray’s distinguished career, marked by award-winning journalism and a steadfast dedication to ethical reporting, positions him as a valuable asset to the Truth & Justice Project. His expertise in media relations and his passion for uncovering the truth would significantly contribute to advancing the organization’s objectives and fostering public trust.
Dr. John White
About Dr. John
Dr. John Sterling White is a dedicated psychiatrist serving the Temple, Texas community. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dr. White began his commitment to healthcare by enlisting in the U.S. Army straight out of high school, where he served proudly as a medic. This experience deepened his passion for medicine, leading him to pursue a medical degree at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, graduating in 2021.
Following medical school, Dr. White completed his residency in Psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple, Texas, concluding in 2025. During his residency, he gained comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and schizophrenia.
Currently, Dr. White is affiliated with Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Temple and Canyon Creek Behavioral Health, where he continues to provide compassionate psychiatric care to his patients. His approach integrates medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. White enjoys watching movies, with “Hurricane” standing out as a personal favorite, particularly for its relevance to jury integrity. This interest reflects his appreciation for narratives that explore complex human experiences.
Dr. White’s journey from a Dallas native and U.S. Army medic to a dedicated psychiatrist underscores his unwavering commitment to serving others and advancing mental health care in his community.
Brandon Woodruff
About Brandon
Brandon Woodruff’s resilience and dedication to justice make him a powerful advocate for those impacted by wrongful convictions. Having experienced the devastating effects of the criminal justice system firsthand, Brandon brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the role of Inmate Representative for the Truth & Justice Project. His story is deeply rooted in tragedy, as his parents, Dennis and Norma Woodruff, were the victims of a heinous crime that forever changed his life. Their memory now serves as the inspiration for the “Dennis & Norma Woodruff Act,” a proposed Texas bill aimed at establishing a state-wide Conviction Integrity Unit to address miscarriages of justice. Brandon’s connection to this legislation highlights his commitment to ensuring that his parents’ legacy fosters change.
As someone who has faced the realities of incarceration while maintaining his innocence, Brandon offers an unparalleled understanding of the struggles and needs of inmates, particularly those wrongfully convicted. His lived experience has not only fueled his passion for justice reform but also deepened his empathy for others navigating similar circumstances. Over the years, Brandon has educated himself extensively on the systemic flaws that contribute to wrongful convictions, gaining the knowledge and insight needed to advocate effectively. As Inmate Representative, he would serve as a vital bridge between incarcerated individuals and the Truth & Justice Project, amplifying their voices and bringing concerns to the forefront.
Brandon’s work also honors the legacy of his parents by furthering the mission of the Dennis & Norma Woodruff Act. His dedication to justice reform reflects the values they instilled in him and aligns perfectly with the goals of the Truth & Justice Project. By sharing his personal story, Brandon not only humanizes the issue of wrongful convictions but also inspires hope and change. His passion, empathy, and expertise make him an exceptional candidate for the role, ensuring that the voices of the incarcerated are heard and that meaningful progress is achieved in the fight for fairness and integrity in the legal system.