The Radio Television Digital News Association recognized WFAE with three awards in its regional Edward R. Murrow Awards competition for electronic journalism. WFAE’s “The List” ranked first in two categories – Investigative Reporting and Podcast. “The Shooting of Danquirs Franklin” placed first in Continuing Coverage category.
“The List” by reporter Sarah Delia – Investigative Reporting and Podcast categories: In 2019, the Catholic Diocese of Charlotte announced by the end of 2019 it would release a list of clergy who are credibly accused of sexual abuse involving minors. Over four episodes, Delia explored why that list is important to survivors and why a list had not been released when the series aired.
“‘The List,’ like Sarah’s earlier award-winning investigation ‘She Says,’ shows the power of coupling thorough research and reporting with masterful storytelling,” said Ju-Don Marshall, WFAE’s chief content officer. “The series takes the listeners on a journey to understanding why something that seems so simple – a list – is so complicated to produce and so vital to the healing of those who, in some cases, have waited decades for justice. As a local news organization, we are committed devoting the time and resources necessary to tell these kinds of stories.”
“The Shooting of Danquirs Franklin” by WFAE Newsroom – Continuing Coverage category: From March to November 2019, WFAE’s newsroom produced several stories on the police shooting of Danquirs Franklin at a Burger King in Charlotte. The shooting resulted in his death, the video that was available and was not immediately released, and a debate over whether an officer should be charged and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department policy. By the end of 2019, CMPD changed its policy to give more priority to de-escalation.
“A newsroom must work as a team, and that teamwork especially shows during huge news events. Everyone contributed to this award – our reporters, hosts, digital staff and ‘Charlotte Talks’,” said Greg Collard, WFAE’s news director. “This coverage represents substantive journalism that WFAE is committed to consistently deliver.”
WFAE competes in a region that’s comprised of stations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia. As regional winners, these entries are under consideration for National Murrow Awards.