Statesman, KVUE Win Transparency Award for Garza Home Security Investigation

The Austin American-Statesman and KVUE-TV won a top statewide reporting award for an investigation that promoted government transparency by exposing highly irregular taxpayer-funded security upgrades at the home of Travis County District Attorney José Garza.

The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas honored the reporting with the Nancy Monson Spirit of Freedom of Information Award, which recognizes news organizations that use or spotlight open government laws and uphold First Amendment rights in producing outstanding journalism.

The “Security Secrecy” series by Statesman investigative reporter Tony Plohetski, produced in partnership with KVUE executive investigative producer Joe Ellis and photojournalist Dennis Thomas, prompted the release of records on a $115,000 Travis County allocation to Garza, which included payments for security enhancements to his home.

It also prompted county commissioners to reconsider and vote again on the matter to make their action clearer to the public.

The county and Garza had previously fought the disclosure of information about the expense, which came at a time of increased threats against elected officials.

“The reporting led to the release of records and held government officials accountable, and serves as an example of how a strong free press should operate,” the contest judge said.

Founded in 1978, the nonprofit Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas promotes open government and protects First Amendment rights of free speech and free press.