BINJ Investigative Features

Is Philip Chism’s Sentence Unlawful? Lawyers Raise New Questions In Appeal Before Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

Attorneys argue: “Because the non-homicide sentences govern when [Chism] is eligible for parole, he can’t see the Parole Board for 40 years where it would be 30 years at most for any juvenile sentenced to first-degree murder.”

JEAN TROUNSTINE October 29, 2024

Compensation For Wrongful Convictions In Massachusetts: The Fight For Justice And Reform

The challenges for those seeking wrongful conviction compensation in Massachusetts, the push for reform, and the impact on exonerees. This is how advocates are fighting to remove the $1 million cap and improve the justice system.

ANDREW QUEMERE October 28, 2024

Half The Story: A Deep Dive On What’s Come Of Police Reform In Massachusetts

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 shuffle.”

CHRIS FARAONE AND SAM STECKLOW September 18, 2024

GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 3

Who are the Massachusetts governor’s councilors? What professional baggage do they bring to the body? And can this motley crew stumble toward reform?

JEAN TROUNSTINE August 29, 2024

GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 2

With its hollow rules, ethical dilemmas, and reluctance to address a lack of transparency and other problems, the Governor’s Council has no clothes

JEAN TROUNSTINE August 14, 2024

AFTER MATTIS

First “emerging adult” parole hearing held in Massachusetts since historic ruling on life without parole for those under 21

JEAN TROUNSTINE July 29, 2024

GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 1

For centuries, critics have questioned whether the Governor’s Council, rife with conflict, should exist. In 2024, is the body obsolete?

JEAN TROUNSTINE July 25, 2024

THE POWER OF BIG PAPI

Commonwealth seeks no-bid contract with David Ortiz-tied EV charger company

DAN ATKINSON July 24, 2024

LACK OF TRAINS-PARENCY AT MBTA

The T commissioned multiple safety studies costing millions, but officials refuse to release the reports. Transparency advocates say the agency is using “Orwellian doublespeak” to conceal the findings.

DAN ATKINSON July 15, 2024