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A White woman in a gray suit delivers a speech at a podium with the federal Bureau of Prisons logo on it. In the background, an American flag can be seen on the left and the U.S. Department of Justice flag on the right.
News August 4
She Tried to ‘Humanize’ Prisons in Oregon. Can She Fix the Federal System?
Inspired by European models, the new Bureau of Prisons director built a Japanese garden in one penitentiary and made official language less demeaning. But some are skeptical of lasting reform.
By Keri Blakinger
Demonstrators gathered during a night of protest against police brutality and the deployment of federal troops in Portland, Ore., in July 2020.
Analysis February 4, 2021
They Were Accused of Messing With Local Officers. Should the Feds Intervene?
In Oregon and across the country, protesters charged with “civil disorder” say the vague federal law is unconstitutional.
By Christie Thompson
Crisis responders Aana Sundling and Chris Jones visit an unhoused community member in Olympia, Wash., to let them know about a potential shelter opportunity, in July.
Feature July 24, 2020
This City Stopped Sending Police to Every 911 Call
Riding along with the civilian “crisis responders” of Olympia, Washington.
By Christie Thompson
The state Department of Licensing temporarily closed its driver...s licensing and other service counters to the public. Photographed in Tacoma, Wash., on Tuesday, March 17, 2020.
Coronavirus May 26, 2020
No Photo ID, No Services: Coronavirus Poses Steep Hurdles After Prison
For many people leaving prison during the pandemic, closed DMVs mean closed doors.
By Christie Thompson
Prisoners at the Washington County Jail in Hillsboro, Ore., in 2018.
Coronavirus May 15, 2020
For Mentally Ill Defendants, Coronavirus Means Few Safe Options
While their mental health deteriorates, some are stuck in jail as hospitals are decreasing admissions to prevent the spread of infections.
By Christie Thompson
Life Inside February 13, 2020
I Struggled to Help a Prisoner. In Norway, I Found a Better Way
“We took off his wrist restraints and gave him pen and paper. He drew up a storm.”
By Toby Tooley as told to Maurice Chammah
Life Inside June 13, 2019
After Prison, I Became a Better Dad
“Even when a parent has been part of a child’s pain, that parent’s love can still be the antidote.”
By Richard Hines–Norwood, as told to Rachel Blustain
Life Inside April 11, 2019
Money Changed Everything for Me in Prison
“I am not evidence that the system ‘works.’ I am an outlier, dripping in luck.”
By Morgan Godvin
Portland Police Chief Penny Harrington, center, in 1986 with her husband, Officer Bruce Gary Harrington, and her sister, police Capt. Roberta Webber.
Looking Back September 5, 2018
A Police Pioneer on Her Unfinished Business
Portland’s first female chief, Penny Harrington, recalls the steep climb to the top.
By Ivonne Roman
Life Inside January 11, 2018
The Curious Case of the Prisoners in the Wrong Cellblock
A mystery unfolds during an urgent phone call.
By Sterling R. Cunio
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