Learn how a series on police corruption in New York City, sparked an investigation by the Knapp commission after a tip from detective Frank Serpico.
David Burnham, a renowned investigative journalist and former reporter for The New York Times, passed away at the age of 91 at his residence in Spruce Head, Maine. His groundbreaking work on exposing corruption within the New York City Police Department in 1970 not only led to public hearings and the scrutiny of top officials, including the mayor but also inspired the iconic movie “Serpico” based on his chief source, Detective Frank Serpico.
Before joining The New York Times in 1967, Burnham had worked at various news organizations. He was hired by The Times to delve into the inner workings of the police department, rather than just covering crime incidents like shootings and stabbings. In 1968, he uncovered the practice of officers sleeping in their patrol cars during overnight shifts due to exhaustion from second jobs during the day, a phenomenon known as “cooping.”
Despite initial resistance from editors who were hesitant about pursuing investigative stories, Burnham’s persistence and dedication to uncovering the truth led to his groundbreaking article on the front page. His diligent reporting caught the attention of Detective Serpico, who had been trying to expose internal corruption within the police force for years. Serpico provided Burnham with valuable information, which eventually led to a series of articles published in April 1970, revealing the widespread corruption within the police department.
Burnham’s meticulous approach to journalism and commitment to factual accuracy set him apart in the field. His in-depth investigations and willingness to challenge the status quo paved the way for uncovering systemic issues within law enforcement. Through his collaboration with whistleblowers like Detective Serpico, Burnham shed light on the pervasive culture of graft and cover-ups that had plagued the police department for years.
The impact of Burnham’s exposé reverberated throughout the city, prompting public outrage and demands for accountability from officials. The revelations not only exposed the extent of corruption within the police force but also raised questions about the complicity of top brass and city authorities in perpetuating these illicit activities. The ensuing public hearings and investigations sparked a wave of reforms aimed at addressing the systemic issues highlighted by Burnham’s reporting.
The legacy of David Burnham’s investigative journalism continues to inspire journalists and activists to uncover corruption and hold those in power accountable. His fearless pursuit of the truth and unwavering commitment to upholding journalistic integrity serve as a testament to the power of investigative reporting in exposing wrongdoing and driving social change. Through his work, Burnham left an indelible mark on the field of journalism and a lasting impact on the fight against corruption in law enforcement and beyond.
Source: The NY Times
