Law Enforcement Watchdog Reporter

The Kansas City Star • Kansas City, MO

396d

About The Position

The Kansas City Star is seeking a competitive and self-starting reporter to cover law enforcement accountability across the Kansas City area. This role focuses on investigating police departments, sheriff's offices, prosecutors, jails, and courts, emphasizing public service and accountability journalism. The reporter will engage with community members to uncover stories that matter, holding law enforcement accountable and exploring issues affecting the community.

Requirements

• 1-3 years of reporting experience, ideally in criminal justice reporting.
• Strong news judgment and a desire to be first on important stories.
• Excellent writing skills and organizational abilities.
• Understanding of public records law.
• Commitment to ethical journalism and sensitivity in handling difficult subjects.
• Ability to adapt to new technologies and tools for reporting and analysis.
• Competency in metrics, analytics, SEO, and audience optimization tactics.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and constructive criticism.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in accountability journalism.
• Familiarity with community engagement strategies.
• Knowledge of digital journalism tools and platforms.

Responsibilities

• Cover police departments, sheriff's offices, prosecutors, jails, courts, and other criminal justice institutions.
• Investigate and report on law enforcement accountability issues.
• Fact-check official claims and go beyond police press releases.
• Engage with community members, neighborhood leaders, and advocates to gather perspectives.
• Identify and report on significant issues affecting the community.
• Manage multiple projects while producing regular news stories.
• Follow up on breaking news and conduct longer-term investigations.

Benefits

• Health care coverage for employees and their families.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Competitive paid time off and corporate holidays.
• Mental health benefits.
• Wellness resources and support for health and wellness goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
• Education Level: No Education Listed