Investigations Podcast | How pandemic relief became a fraud frenzy in Washington Emergency actions put money in the hands of struggling small businesses — and opened the door for some scammers. Brandon Block shares his reporting. by Sara Bernard / May 3, 2023
Investigations The WA ‘strike force’ chasing millions in COVID-19 relief fraud From a Spokane T-shirt scheme to a Nigerian unemployment scam, federal prosecutors are grappling with how to prioritize cases amid limited resources. by Brandon Block / May 3, 2023
Investigations King County prosecutor’s office accused of ‘self-dealing’ promotion An investigation found no hiring policies were violated but noted there is no consistent process for filling leadership positions. by Lizz Giordano / April 13, 2023
Investigations Where the Starbucks union stands after rallies, proposed audit As a new CEO takes over, employees of the Seattle-based coffee giant are taking their demands to the street: Stop union-busting and bargain in good faith. by Lizz Giordano / March 24, 2023 / Updated at 3:50 p.m. March 29
Investigations Auditors flag half of Washington counties over COVID-19 aid Findings of fraud or misuse remained rare despite short deadlines set for local governments to spend billions in emergency relief. by Jacob Jones / March 23, 2023
News Fatal hit-and-runs in Seattle leave lasting damage, few consequences More and more drivers are fleeing deadly collisions across Washington state and the nation. Can advocates and officials find a solution? by Lizz Giordano / March 22, 2023
Investigations Podcast | The rise of the unionized barista Reporter Lizz Giordano discusses the recent labor organizing push in Washington and the struggles between Starbucks and its workers. by Sara Bernard / March 1, 2023
Investigations Starbucks union fight shows hard road for many toward contract Prolonged negotiations and mounting complaints at the Seattle-based coffee retailer show the obstacles a new labor movement faces. by Lizz Giordano / March 1, 2023
Investigations Washington food banks brace for 'hunger cliff' amid SNAP cuts As food-stamp recipients see grocery budgets tighten, state proposals would shift money to already strained and short-staffed local services. by Brandon Block / February 28, 2023
Investigations WA auditors flag $1.2B in federal aid over incomplete records State agencies said most dollars are accounted for, but unclear guidance on pandemic relief made complying with reporting rules difficult. by Jacob Jones / July 11, 2023