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David Robinson

is the lead reporter for the Driving Force, a joint investigation between the USA TODAY Network-New York and Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.



A graphically designed illustration overlaying images of handcuffs, a fingerprint, confidential files, the American flag, and the back of a police officer
Driving Force

How to use our police car crash database

Published On: February 19, 2024

Police records released after the repeal of 50-a in New York helped journalists probe cop car crashes.

Victims of police vehicle crashes rarely see the officers face substantial discipline for the incidents, and they fare poorly in court. While these residents deal with years-long, permanent physical or mental damage related to crashes, the officers involved are often put right back on the road with little to no penalty or reprimand.
Driving Force

Driving Force: The heavy toll of NY police crashes

Published On: February 13, 2024

Syracuse police officers crashed their vehicles hundreds of times between 2013 and 2022, with some wrecks leaving civilians with lasting injuries.