MINNEAPOLIS — KARE 11 Investigates was honored for excellence in local video storytelling at the 71st Scripps Howard Journalism Awards in Cincinnati on Sunday for the special "KARE 11 Investigates: Broken Promises."
This year marks the first time KARE's I-Team won the prestigious award, having been a finalist in the category two years prior.
"Broken Promises" follows a years-long investigation into Veterans Affairs failures, including denial of patients' medical care and benefits, and revealing a pattern of inadequate and cursory examinations at the Tomah VA Medical Center in Tomah, Wisconsin.
"The team has been relentless in getting accountability for veterans who served our country and were being denied medical benefits they rightly deserved," said KARE 11 News Director Stacey Nogy. "This story shows the impact local journalism can have and we are humbled by this honor."
The 22-minute special documents multiple federal investigations and congressional inquiries into the Tomah facility, resulting in a doctor's termination, newly ordered neurological testing, awarding of backdated benefits and improved medical treatment. A special hotline for veterans who believe they've been misdiagnosed by a doctor was also created in the wake of the special.
U.S. Secretary of Veteran Affairs Denis McDonough also acknowledged the influence of KARE 11's reporting.
In a statement, the Scripps Howard Fund said the special "exemplifies what it means for journalists to hold institutions accountable, expose injustices and advocate for societal change. It is video journalism in its finest form, using the medium to add a new depth of emotion to the storytelling."
“We are incredibly proud of the KARE 11 Investigates team for their dedication to shedding light on such an important issue," said KARE 11 General Manager Doug Wieder.
"'Broken Promises' is a powerful example of investigative journalism at its best. Their persistence in giving a voice to our veterans deserves to be recognized, and we are honored to see this vital work make a difference.”