Investigations How did Washington spend $6.5B in federal pandemic aid? Some local governments spent their COVID relief cash on infrastructure and low-income housing while others opted for controversial police surveillance. by Brandon Block / December 31, 2024
Investigations Thurston County must repay up to $668K in fraudulent rental aid The Western WA county is the first in the nation to face a U.S. Treasury demand to return COVID-19 rent program funds due to fraud. by Brandon Block / December 9, 2024
Investigations WA law restricts noncompete agreements. They keep popping up anyway A Pasco man is being sued by his former company for breaking a noncompete contract, in a case that tests WA’s ability to enforce its own labor laws. by Brandon Block / November 1, 2024
Investigations Small businesses continue legal battle over denied pandemic aid Corporations have used the courts to secure millions in federal loan forgiveness, but some entrepreneurs with fewer resources have yet to see a dime. by Brandon Block / October 10, 2024
Investigations Pierce deputy drove 83 mph in wrong lane during deadly 2020 crash Records show the county settled for $3.5M after deeming the collision highly preventable, demonstrating the vague legal standards for officer driving. by Brandon Block / June 25, 2024
News The American economy is booming, if not in most voters’ minds Polls find that despite strong employment and reduced inflation, citizens are in no mood to credit Biden — which could buoy Trump’s campaign. by Brandon Block / May 8, 2024
Investigations Whatcom County paid $225K to settle sexual harassment complaints Multiple women accused a public works director of inappropriate conduct. Officials helped him get a new job by agreeing not to share the allegations. by Brandon Block / April 19, 2024
Investigations Washington UTC chair who used racial slur asked to resign An investigation found two commissioners allegedly used derogatory language, disregarded harassment complaints and failed to advance equity policies. by Brandon Block / March 15, 2024
Investigations WA health officials throw away millions of pandemic supplies Masks, gowns, gloves and more: States are culling their expired stockpiles, but medical experts say the waste shows a system unprepared for disasters. by Brandon Block / February 23, 2024
Investigations WA intercepts millions in child support for low-income families In 2022, the state took over $40 million meant for impoverished children. A bipartisan bill could redirect a portion of future payments to families. by Brandon Block / January 25, 2024