Investigations
Northampton’s Division of Community Care was born of activist demands for an alternative to policing. But some former employees say the agency has strayed...
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The Shoestring
Investigations
At least 15 police departments in the Connecticut River Valley have used the company Flock Safety’s controversial surveillance tech, records show. But it’s not...
Investigations
Despite much initial fanfare, residents have been told that there are no formal plans for the project. But the city’s been busy, and some...
Investigations
The state has little to say about its "data commons" project, which it hopes will make Massachusetts a hub for tech development.
Investigations
Advocates for the creation of a new public utility hope their message can be heard above a well-funded campaign against the network buildout.
Investigations
Easthampton’s most expensive police vehicles have suffered damage, both in and outside the city.
Investigations
The state police response cost over $60,000, on top of $42,000 spent on UMass police presence. The university is now considering more stringent protest...
Investigations
Massachusetts passed historic police certification reform. But even with the POST Commission, the public can’t see which cops have been part of the “officer...
Investigations
Neal's status as one of Congress' top recipients of PAC money has kept his seat safe for decades despite challenges from the left.
Investigations
What professional baggage do the councilors bring to the elected body? And can this motley crew stumble toward reform?
Investigations
Mayor Ginny Desorgher appointed Todd Dodge as police chief on Tuesday. The Shoestring investigates Dodge’s past and present as a Greenfield officer.
Investigations
With its hollow rules, ethical dilemmas, and reluctance to address a lack of transparency and other problems, the Governor’s Council has no clothes.
Investigations
Trespassing arrests have recently doubled at Holyoke’s most policed apartment complexes. Unlike most, Osvaldo Soto-Berrios decided to fight his case.
Education
The fallout continues from UMass' protest encampment crackdown. Records show the police response cost at least tens of thousands of dollars.
Investigations
For centuries, critics have questioned whether the Governor’s Council, rife with conflict, should exist. In 2024, is the body obsolete?
Education
As UMass backs out of a commitment to consider divestment, a Shoestring investigation reveals its endowment has millions indirectly invested in defense contractors and...