Education reporter Julia Merola and health reporter Nick Stonesifer recently discussed their investigation into the Rockford Center on the podcast “Beyond the Headlines.” The private behavioral health hospital in Newark has been cited by state regulators for giving children medications without consent.
The reporters shared insights on their six-month-long investigation process, including connecting with families and employees, the time-consuming nature of such investigations, and the importance of fact-checking. They also discussed the personal impact of reporting on stories like these.
The podcast, hosted by Director of Community Engagement David Stradley, delved into the high-level findings of the Rockford Center investigation, which focused on medication and sedation practices reported by families, patients, and former employees.
Merola initiated the investigation after coming across a Facebook post from a parent whose daughter had a negative experience at the facility. Stonesifer, who had worked on similar articles before, highlighted the benefits of collaborating on such a challenging investigation.
The investigative process, which lasted over seven months, involved scheduling interviews with families, analyzing state reports, and finding an independent psychiatrist for expert opinions. The reporters discussed the challenges of accurate reporting and earning the trust of families sharing sensitive information.
Feedback from the community was positive, with many individuals sharing their own experiences and thanking the reporters for shedding light on the issue. The investigative process, although emotionally challenging, was deemed necessary to hold entities accountable and highlight the importance of thorough reporting.
The reporters emphasized the significance of fact-checking, collaboration, and diligence in investigative journalism. The response from readers and individuals who shared their stories validated the reporters’ efforts and reaffirmed the importance of holding institutions accountable for their actions.
