2020 Journalists of the Year

Tony Cook

Tim Evans

Emily Hopkins

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Journalist of the Year Award Criteria

​A journalist or reporting organization who’s reporting, commentary or editorial furthers the public understanding of the law and encourages the protection of consumers, injured persons, and the civil justice system

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Tony, Tim, & Emily's Nomination
Submitted by Ashley Hadler & John Young

Tony Cook’s deep-dive into Indiana’s nursing homes is an unparalled investigation into the reasons such poor care is provided in these facilities.  His series of publications educate the public on just how poor the staffing is, why the budget it far from adequate, and how it results in injury and neglect to Hoosier residents. Tony left no stone unturned in interviewing families and current and former employees, reviewing legal and IDOI dockets, speaking to attorneys, obtaining state and federal agency data and more.  The series was educational to both the public and to professionals working in the industry.  He has continued to provide in-depth coverage of nursing homes’ inadequate response to the coronavirus and to provide helpful resources for family members effected by these issues.
 
The series can be found here: https://www.indystar.com/in-depth/news/investigations/2020/03/11/indiana-nursing-home-patients-suffer-medicaid-money-diverted-hospitals/2517834001/