Ryan J. Foley tracked something no federal agency or outside organization does—uncovering the deaths of police recruits during training, a crisis disproportionately affecting Black men and one that experts say could have been prevented.
Foley began investigating the death of a police recruit in Indiana last year and soon noticed similar cases across the country. One expert suggested these deaths were increasing, prompting Foley to dig deeper.
He obtained incident reports, autopsy records, training videos, and other public records, uncovering a story that had gone untold: More than two dozen recruits died during basic training over the past decade, most from conditions linked to intense exercise that could have been prevented. Many of those who died were Black men, and a significant number carried the sickle cell trait, which increases the risk of serious injury after extreme exertion. Foley also revealed that some victims’ families were denied benefits or honors because their loved ones were not full officers at the time of death.
A multiformat team assembled early on to bring the story to life. Janelle Cogan for Top Stories played a key role in editing and ensuring collaboration across AP teams. Minneapolis video journalist Mark Vancleave produced video interviews with experts and a widow and secured video of two training deaths—critical in telling the story. Top Stories photo editor Rachel Leathe curated handout photos into a gut-wrenching composite illustrating the human toll. Peter Hamlin created graphics, including a sickle cell trait illustration that received strong reader feedback. Nat Castañeda led the visual presentation, drawing readers into the story, while photo freelancer Andres Kudacki captured poignant portraits of a widow, expressing her grief beyond words.
Foley also worked with Katie Oyan and Jennifer Lehman on a Localize It guide, helping members report on deaths in their own communities.
Foley’s vision and commitment saw this project through from start to finish, producing an Only on AP accountability piece that revealed a problem surprising even to advocates and policing experts. The investigation earned accolades from readers and customers alike.
The judges were impressed with Foley’s dedication to executing a complex, multi-faceted investigation, the success of localization efforts, and the powerful presentation.
For his thorough reporting, collaboration, and commitment to digital storytelling and newsroom partnerships, Foley earns this week’s Best of AP — Second Winner.
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