Steve Andrews

WFLA Senior Investigative Reporter Steve Andrews spoke with our class on October 14, 2008. Andrews was motivating and inspiring. His stories were so momentous and emotional that I can’t wait until I can make that kind of a difference in people’s lives. He presented several cases and walked us step by step through his investigations. Andrews explained how public records can reveal crucial evidence. Most of the time, public records and patience are all you need to build a great report.

The first story Andrews shared was about cracks in a reservoir. I never imagined that something so simple could affect so many people. The 146 million dollar reservoir was supposed to be constructed with 12 inch walls. However, inspection proved that the walls were only four and in some cases only one inch thick. While covering the story, Andrews found out that there were videotaped dives that showed the inspections. Because of chapter 119, the videotapes are a matter of public record and Andrews was therefore entitled to the footage. This footage helped solidify the story which led to a full blown investigation and a great story.

Andrews also discussed the story he reported on Ronald Larson and the Palmetto Guest Home. Along with the medical records shared by Ashley Butler, public records helped Andrews find the cracks in the system Larson was able to slip through. Andrews revealed the horrible inner workings of this abusive assisted living facility and saved the dozen of patients who had been terribly neglected.

Andrews stressed that though his research investigation methods can be time consuming and emotionally stressful, the most difficult part is often due to agency discouragement. Not only will agencies try and refuse reporters public records, but they will also bury evidence in hundreds of boxes of files. Regardless the obstacle Andrews showed us why the fulfillment is well worth the work.