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Investigations

The Newsroom produces deeply researched investigative stories that shine a light on abuses of power and waste within government.

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Investigation

Lawmakers in Hot Water With Feds Get Campaign Cash That Helps Pay Defense Lawyers

In one of his last acts, now-retired Illinois Senate President John Cullerton OK’d sending nearly $100,000 to two state senators under federal investigation.
May 22, 2020 5:30 AM
Investigation

Needle Exchange Programs Cutting Back During Coronavirus Crisis

Programs started in the 1980s to slow the spread of the HIV epidemic are now scaling back because of COVID-19, a move some experts say could create a new challenge in fighting the deadly outbreak.
May 7, 2020 6:00 AM
Investigation

Even Before Federal COVID-19 Rescue Checks Arrive, Illinois Schools Spend Tens of Millions on Technology

Despite push, some students still lack devices, and some districts aren’t providing data about who’s logging on.
May 6, 2020 3:00 PM
Investigation

COVID-19 Delivering Latest Twist in Fight Over Controversial Shipping Hub

Project recently approved by Joliet raising issues not only of economics but also of open democracy for governments making decisions as they adhere to social distancing and stay-at-home orders amid pandemic.
Apr 22, 2020 6:00 AM
Investigation

Contractor In Little Village Smokestack Fiasco Was Cited In March For Blowing Dust — But City OK’d Demolition Anyway

A Hilco affiliate, contractor MCM Management Corp. and partners were hit with $3.75 million in environmental violations in Maryland.
Apr 17, 2020 11:46 AM
Investigation

Coronavirus Scams Surging Across Illinois and Experts Predict More

Federal and local officials have gotten thousands of fraud complaints. Stimulus checks will create another tidal wave of fraud, authorities warn.
Apr 15, 2020 6:00 AM
Investigation

Aides Caring for Vulnerable Seniors Amid Coronavirus Still on the Job Despite Lack of Masks, Protective Gear and Social Distancing

As many as 22 home care clients who are part of an Illinois program have tested positive for COVID-19, including five who died, state says. Some home health aides also have tested positive.
Apr 8, 2020 2:00 PM
Investigation

Was Boeing’s Chicago Deal Worth the Taxpayer Cost?

The gold rush among corporations to demand expensive public help in underwriting development and jobs got a kick-start when tax incentives enticed Boeing to move its headquarters to Chicago.
Apr 3, 2020 7:00 AM
Investigation

Lightfoot Pushing to Make TIFs More Equitable but Changes Lacking for Critics She’s Tried to Win Over

Chicago’s mayor has long-promised to reform how special tax funds are spent on private projects. Her first move is a step but isn’t big enough for some.
Mar 30, 2020 6:00 AM
Investigation

Coronavirus Crippling Chicago’s Census Outreach Effort

Mayor Lori Lightfoot, already worried about the city losing billions of dollars in the 2020 headcount, worked to boost participation in undercounted communities. Now COVID-19 is creating a major new hurdle.
Mar 23, 2020 3:05 PM

Investigations

Lawmakers in Hot Water With Feds Get Campaign Cash That Helps Pay Defense Lawyers

Needle Exchange Programs Cutting Back During Coronavirus Crisis

Even Before Federal COVID-19 Rescue Checks Arrive, Illinois Schools Spend Tens of Millions on Technology

COVID-19 Delivering Latest Twist in Fight Over Controversial Shipping Hub

Contractor In Little Village Smokestack Fiasco Was Cited In March For Blowing Dust — But City OK’d Demolition Anyway

Coronavirus Scams Surging Across Illinois and Experts Predict More

Aides Caring for Vulnerable Seniors Amid Coronavirus Still on the Job Despite Lack of Masks, Protective Gear and Social Distancing

Was Boeing’s Chicago Deal Worth the Taxpayer Cost?

Lightfoot Pushing to Make TIFs More Equitable but Changes Lacking for Critics She’s Tried to Win Over

Coronavirus Crippling Chicago’s Census Outreach Effort

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