The Slush Fund and the Sealed File
The article examines the parallels between the institutional protection mechanisms in Congress and family courts, highlighting how powerful figures evade accountability. It critiques Congress's rapid response to Eric Swalwell's misconduct allegations…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 14, 2025
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) has acknowledged it lacks written policies for criminal affidavits and District Attorney Investigator authority. This gap raises concerns about procedural compliance, training, and oversight, potentially…
Maryland Judges Required to Reveal Their Finances — But How Public Is “Public”?
Maryland's judges must file annual financial disclosure statements by April 30, detailing assets and potential conflicts of interest. While intended for transparency, the process lacks public accessibility, requiring specific requests for access to…
Maryland’s Missing Foster Children: What the Numbers Reveal
The Maryland Department of Human Services has revealed that 990 children in foster care have been missing since 2020, following an MPIA request by advocates. Policy changes obscured the distinction between runaways and missing children, raising concerns…
Paper Crime Scene: How a County Line Turned a Custody Dispute Into a Felony Case
Giselle Farias Smiel stands accused of kidnapping her children, with her case reflecting failures in bureaucratic procedures and communication. A custody dispute escalated into criminal charges due to unverified paperwork from the father. Sealed…