Investigative Journalism | Exposing What Lies Beneath
On June 13, 2025, the New York State Senate passed Senate Bill S1667, aimed at improving family court proceedings by regulating forensic evaluators. Sponsored by Senator Pete Harckham, the bill mandates qualified experts to protect parental rights and children’s welfare, addressing long-standing issues of bias and accountability in custody evaluations.
Investigations 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 MoreFormer New Rochelle police officer Lane Schlesinger faced numerous misconduct complaints, including dishonest behavior and policy violations, yet remained on the force until retirement without accountability. Internal reports detailed his dangerous conduct, notably a 2021 incident in a COVID ICU, highlighting systemic failures by oversight bodies to address his actions.
Internal Affairs Knew: The Paper Trail That Should’ve Ended Schlesinger’s Career Read MoreIn August 2021, retired officer Lane Schlesinger violated COVID-19 protocols at North Shore Hospital, disregarding warnings and masks. Despite documented misconduct and referrals to the Attorney General’s office, no action was taken against him. Schlesinger’s case highlights systemic failures in law enforcement accountability, leading to unequal treatment under the law.
“I Don’t Care”: The COVID Hospital Incident They Tried to Bury Read MoreIn New Rochelle, former police officer Lane Schlesinger exemplifies systemic misconduct, ignoring regulations during a COVID-19 incident and facing no accountability for numerous violations. Instead of discipline, he retired with a generous pension while individuals like Marc Fishman endure unjust consequences. This case highlights a troubling culture within police departments favoring protection over integrity.
The Protected Predator: How Lane Schlesinger Evaded Accountability for 15 Years Read MoreMarc Fishman, denied due process and access to his children, symbolizes systemic abuse in New York’s family courts, where judges act without accountability. Despite evidence of misconduct and legislators’ awareness, reforms remain unaddressed, resulting in suffering families. Immediate legislative action and oversight are essential to restore justice in the system.
Where Is the Oversight? NY Legislators Stay Silent as Family Court Abuses Continue Read MoreMarc Fishman has not seen his son Aidan for over seven years, despite no allegations of abuse or danger. Fishman’s case highlights failures in the family court system, where parental alienation is overlooked and visitation rights are denied without due process. This tragedy reflects a broader issue affecting many parents and children.
Aidan Hasn’t Seen His Father in 7 Years: When Parental Alienation Is Court-Sanctioned Read MoreMarc Fishman’s experience in New York’s family court highlights a troubling reality where parents often face legal consequences without a trial. Default orders and procedural dismissals deny them their rights, with judges prioritizing bureaucracy over justice. This systemic issue calls for mandatory hearings to ensure due process and prevent unjust decisions regarding parental access.
Guilty Without a Hearing: How New York Family Court Destroys Due Process Read MoreFamily court in New York often prioritizes procedural technicalities over truth, resulting in devastating consequences for parents like Marc Fishman, who struggles for access to his children due to bureaucratic failures. The system frequently dismisses claims based on flawed processes, not factual inaccuracies, highlighting an urgent need for reform to restore fair access to justice.
Paralyzed by Procedure: How Family Court Turns Technicalities Into Injustice Read MoreAmerica’s family courts are violating the ADA by denying essential accommodations to disabled litigants like Marc Fishman, who faced obstacles accessing legal proceedings. This inconsistency represents a double standard compared to federal courts, undermining equal protection. Reform is crucial to ensure equitable access and accountability for family court judges regarding disability rights.
No Note-Taker, No Justice: How Family Court Denies ADA Rights Read More