Investigative Journalism | Exposing What Lies Beneath
By Michael Phillips On May 24, 2024, New York Attorney General Letitia James released a long-awaited report declaring that former New Rochelle police officer Lane Schlesinger had engaged in pattern …
Marc Fishman, a disabled father, faces ongoing separation from his four children due to a wrongful arrest by former officer Lane Schlesinger, who was later terminated for misconduct. Despite evidence proving Fishman’s innocence, Judge Capeci and District Attorney Cacace have taken no action, perpetuating systemic injustice against him.
Justice for the Powerful, Silence for the Abused: The Double Standard in Westchester’s Legal System Read MoreThe article discusses the neglect of American parents and children impacted by the family court system, highlighting that over 23 million children are affected. It criticizes the lack of protests or media attention regarding this issue compared to immigrant rights. The author emphasizes the injustices faced by families and calls for recognition and support for their plight.
Op-Ed: No Kings, No Parents — Why Americans Protest for Non-Citizens but Not for Their Own Children Read MoreFamily courts have become terrifying spaces for fit parents, often treating them as defendants and stripping them of custody based on unfounded allegations. The system is criticized for its coercive mediation practices, lack of due process, and enabling parental alienation. Reform is urgently needed to protect families and ensure justice.
When the Innocent Fear the Courtroom: Why the Family Court System Must Be Abolished Read MoreWilliam Sewell, a self-represented father in custody proceedings, faced systemic bias and judicial misconduct in Judge Mandy Kimmons’ courtroom. Despite filing a motion for fair treatment, Sewell was denied protections and held to unfair standards while opposing counsel manipulated evidence. This case highlights severe issues in the family court system regarding support for self-represented litigants.
Biased from the Bench: How Judge Kimmons Shut Down a Father’s Fight for Fairness Read MoreWilliam Sewell, a mechanic in South Carolina, fights a custody battle without legal representation, facing threats from opposing counsel and a seemingly biased judge. His case highlights the lack of transparency in family courts, emphasizing the need for public scrutiny and accountability to protect citizens’ rights and promote justice.
Lights, Camera, Due Process: Why the William Sewell Case Proves South Carolina Courtrooms Need Cameras Read MoreInvestigations reveal a troubling pattern of misconduct within the New Rochelle Police Department, especially surrounding former officer Lane Schlesinger, who faced numerous complaints yet remained protected and retired with a pension. Similar issues appear widespread, raising concerns about systemic failures and a lack of accountability, demanding comprehensive oversight reform.
Is New Rochelle a Pattern Misconduct Hotspot? Read MorePart 12 of “Court of Ruin” addresses systemic injustice in South Carolina’s family court, focusing on reform proposals to enhance oversight, transparency, and accountability. It emphasizes the necessity of independent reviews, fair legal representation, and protections for whistleblowers, culminating in a call to action for collective change in a broken system.
Justice Under Siege – How the System Crushes Those Who Speak Out Read MoreWilliam H. Sewell faces a family court trial alone, lacking legal representation, knowledge, and time to prepare for custody of his daughter. His previous attorney abandoned him, leaving him defenseless against serious accusations. The system seems rigged against him, highlighting systemic injustices that can devastate unprepared parents.
No Counsel, No Time, No Chance — A Father’s Impossible Trial Read MoreIn Part 10 of “Court of Ruin: The William Sewell Files,” William Sewell’s pursuit of joint custody spirals into legal chaos, financial ruin, and threats of jail time. Despite his efforts to engage as a father, the family court system imposes devastating fees and dismisses his evidence, showcasing systemic injustices faced by many parents.
Punished for Parenting: How the Family Court System Destroys the Very People It Claims to Protect Read More