The Type Investigations Inside/Out Journalism Project produces rigorous coverage of the criminal legal system from a vantage point not typically represented in mainstream media. In doing so, we challenge traditional assumptions about incarcerated writers and remove barriers that too often limit the scope and reach of their reporting. With editorial support, research assistance, expert fact-checking, and fair pay, this project gives incarcerated reporters the resources to take on ambitious, feature-length investigative projects.
Reporting from inside prison also comes with unique hurdles. Most people in prison do not have access to the internet. Incarcerated journalists who want to interview sources over the phone face exorbitant costs, and filing public records requests from prison can be prohibitively difficult. Pitching media outlets without outside help is also daunting. And incarcerated journalists can face retaliation for writing truthfully about what they uncover.
With our industry in dire financial straits, most newsrooms can’t provide the level of support that incarcerated reporters need. Our team at Type has the time, resources, and expertise to help reporters augment their investigations with public records, legal documents, and data.
Inside/Out stories have received awards and have brought renewed attention to urgent prison conditions. Advocates have used our reporting to pressure officials and lobby for change.
Investigations
Progressives celebrated a 2019 law meant to reform solitary confinement. But the state’s Department of Corrections doesn’t seem to be following it.
Incarcerated people described filthy conditions and harsh treatment in San Quentin’s medical quarantine unit.
Backstories
Juan Moreno Haines talks about what drew him to investigate the Adjustment Center, the challenges of reporting while incarcerated, and what it was like to report on the prison’s Covid-19 crisis as he was living through it.
News & Analysis
A report released by the state’s corrections ombudsperson indicates that prisons are breaking a law that limits the use of solitary. It confirms a recent story by Type Investigations and HuffPost.
Inside TI
The Inside/Out Journalism Project works with incarcerated reporters to produce feature-length investigations.