2015 Atlantic Journalism Awards Finalists
Attachments
| Slug/Label | HMP guard blows whistle |
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| Date Aired or Published | October 21, December 16 |
| Media outlet where first aired or published: | CBC NL |
| Name of Program: | Here & Now |
| If co-produced, list partner: | Rob Antle, Paul Pickett |
| Location: | St. John's |
| List awards, grants: | |
| Running time (TV/Radio): | 6:33 |
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Short explanation of the story and how it developed: For the past year, I had been in contact with correctional officers at Her Majesty's Penitentiary who flagged serious concerns with the work environment at the institution. None would speak publicly out of fear of losing their jobs. After coming forward to CBC, one man began discussing the issues with me one-on-one. We spoke numerous times over the phone about his concerns before he agreed to doing a formal - albeit anonymous - interview. It was the first time since numerous riots and violent incidents at the prison that a correctional officer spoke publicly about the difficulties they face. The resulting story uncovered serious occupational hazards and shone a light on the mental toll correctional officers face. After the initial story aired, a former correctional officer came forward publicly to recount his experience with HMP and the post-traumatic stress disorder he has been left with since vacating his post. |
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Resources of the newsroom (money and time) available to complete the story: It took several months to complete, as I needed time to cultivate sources and gather information to confirm the correctional officer's allegations. I worked on these stories while fulfilling my regular day-to-day duties. To shoot and edit both stories, it involved three videographers, an editor and the assistance of Investigative Unit producer Rob Antle. The story was completed for television, radio and online. |
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