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Words of Conviction

Tracing a Junk Science Through the Justice System

For more than a decade, a training program known as 911 call analysis and its methods have spread across the country and burrowed deep into the justice system.

Impact of Our Reporting
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Words of Conviction

Pressure Mounts to Ban Use of 911 Call Analysis, Review Convictions

Following a ProPublica investigation, attorneys have called for punishing prosecutors who used the technique knowing it was inadmissible in court. One conviction gets another look.

by Brett Murphy,

5 stories published since 2022

Brett Murphy Wins Al Nakkula and Brechner Freedom of Information Awards

ProPublica,

ProPublica Wins Polk Award for Justice Reporting

by ProPublica,

Two ProPublica Projects Named Finalists for Shadid Award for Journalism Ethics

by ProPublica,

They Called 911 for Help. Police and Prosecutors Used a New Junk Science to Decide They Were Liars.

by Brett Murphy,

How Jessica Logan’s Call for Help Became Evidence Against Her

by Brett Murphy,

What We’re Watching

During Donald Trump’s second presidency, ProPublica will focus on the areas most in need of scrutiny. Here are some of the issues our reporters will be watching — and how to get in touch with them securely.

Learn more about our reporting team. We will continue to share our areas of interest as the news develops.

Photo of Sharon Lerner
Sharon Lerner

I cover health and the environment and the agencies that govern them, including the Environmental Protection Agency.

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Andy Kroll

I cover justice and the rule of law, including the Justice Department, U.S. attorneys and the courts.

Photo of Melissa Sanchez
Melissa Sanchez

I report on immigration and labor, and I am based in Chicago.

Photo of Jesse Coburn
Jesse Coburn

I cover housing and transportation, including the companies working in those fields and the regulators overseeing them.

If you don’t have a specific tip or story in mind, we could still use your help. Sign up to be a member of our federal worker source network to stay in touch.

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