For our annual review of stories, the Indy’s writers have put together lists of pieces in 2020 they were particularly proud of. Here are Senior Editor Tyler Hayden’s top picks.
One Santa Barbara Deputy, Five Violent Deaths ― Deputy Jeremy Rogers has shot and killed three people, caused an accident that claimed two lives, and been sued multiple times, costing Santa Barbara taxpayers more than $5.5 million in legal settlements. Rogers and the Sheriff’s Office were sued yet again this fall for the fatal shooting of Cameron Ely.
These stories are part of my ongoing series ― called Force Files and launched after the killing of George Floyd ― that scrutinizes how and when local law enforcement officers use force against civilians.