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Phil Trexler

Editor-in-Chief, Cleveland

I lead our Cleveland-based team of investigative reporters who write about our criminal justice system, including police, prosecutors, judges, courts, jails, and prisons with a focus on the people impacted.

My Background

I'm a lifelong Clevelander, raised on the West Side by a hard-working, single mother. Her struggle is probably why I've always fought for the underdog with an eye on fairness and justice.

I have spent over three decades as a journalist focused on criminal justice. My work has gotten innocent people freed, bad cops indicted, and new laws passed. I worked as a reporter at the Akron Beacon Journal and as an investigative producer at WKYC TV 3 before joining The Marshall Project.

Over the years, I've coached a future NBA first-round draft pick. Chauffeured Halle Berry. Got punched by Buster Douglas. Used the restroom standing alongside Jerry Springer. Made Nancy Grace angry on live TV. Wrote a book with Bob Feller.

But my greatest encounter was meeting my future wife, Nancy, in the beer line when our ballpark was called Jacobs Field. Together, we have a son, Michael, who works as an attorney.

Contact Me About...

See something in Ohio’s criminal justice system that isn't just or fair? Email me.