- State auditor looking at St. Louis jail, says condition ‘warrant intense scrutiny’ (St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 9/21/2023)
- State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick is taking measures to ensure that serious complaints about conditions at St. Louis’ jail are investigated, following a request from State Sen. Steve Roberts. Roberts initiated the request after receiving reports of “poor medical care, detainees going months without showers and other issues.” Fitzpatrick expressed deep concern over the allegations and is gathering information to determine the next steps, while Roberts criticized city leadership for a lack of transparency and accountability in addressing the issues within the jail.
- Missouri auditor investigating St. Louis jail amid deaths and whistleblower reports (St. Louis Post Dispatch, 10/13/2023)
- The state auditor has initiated an investigation into the city jail in St. Louis, citing concerns about mismanagement, inadequate inmate nutrition and medical care, and interference with the civilian jail oversight board. The investigation was prompted by whistleblower complaints received by State Sen. Steve Roberts, alleging inmate abuse. Tensions have risen between St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones and community leaders, following three deaths in the jail within a six-week period, leading to calls for increased oversight and transparency.
- Bill expanding the powers of the state auditor sent to governor for final approval (Springfield News-Leader, 5/9/2024)
- The Missouri legislature has passed a bill expanding the powers of the state auditor, allowing audits of additional governmental bodies like municipalities and districts. The bill, awaiting Governor Mike Parson’s approval, aims to enhance transparency and accountability in local governments. If signed into law, the auditor could investigate whistleblower complaints without revealing identities, while shouldering financial responsibility for these audits.
- Gov. Parson signs bill to give Missouri auditor more power (Missourinet, 7/15/2024)
- Governor Mike Parson has signed a bill into law that enhances the powers of the Missouri State Auditor, granting them increased authority to address complaints of local government waste, fraud, and abuse by providing subpoena power during investigations. The legislation aims to hold government accountable by protecting whistleblowers and empowering the auditor to conduct more thorough investigations. The bill also allows the auditor to audit local governments when improper activities are suspected or when requested by law enforcement.
- Missouri auditor to investigate S/t. Louis Public School District (St. Louis Public Radio, 8/9/2024)
- The Missouri State Auditor, Scott Fitzpatrick, has announced an investigation into the St. Louis Public School District due to concerns over transportation, hiring practices, and financial issues. This decision follows a call from St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, who highlighted a projected $35 million deficit in the district’s budget and questioned the hiring of administrators from Superintendent Keisha Scarlett’s former employer in Seattle. The audit, set to begin on August 13, will cover financial and operational aspects, including the district’s curriculum compliance with state policies and laws, particularly the Reading Success Plan.
- Missouri lawmakers push for oversight panel to monitor conditions in state prisons (Missouri Independent, 1/21/2025)
- Missouri lawmakers are proposing a bipartisan oversight panel to monitor conditions in state prisons, focusing on issues such as allegations of abuse and inadequate facilities. Supporters argue the panel would enhance transparency, promote accountability among prison officials, and prioritize the welfare of inmates. The proposal is linked to recent reports of systemic problems including a record number of in-custody deaths, though debates continue regarding the panel’s authority and scope.
