Dallas Pioneered Specialty Criminal Courts Decades Ago. Are They Still Working?
The courts connect defendants with treatment and help some get charges dismissed. Last year, the state launched reviews into half of them.

Welcome to The Lab Report
Our journalism is actionable and drives real-world impact. Explore our investigations, explainers, and data to see how.
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OUR REPORTING
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Introducing ‘Above the Fray’
A new monthly rundown of what you need to know about where you live.
She Grew Up in Jails, Now She Keeps Kids Out of Them
Elizabeth Henneke’s Lone Star Justice Alliance spurred reforms of Dallas’ embattled juvenile justice system. Next comes the rest of Texas.
Pushing Forward in Tenth Street
While the city works to fix a wrong, this Oak Cliff neighborhood waits with cautious optimism for long-awaited public investments.
The Quiet Work That Has Changed South Dallas
Diane Ragsdale spent 40 years delivering homes, healthcare, and job training. Her successor faces a challenging market as he continues her legacy.
Can Dallas Sustain its Decline in Violent Crime?
The experts who helped create the city’s public safety strategy are ending their partnership with police. Local officials say that won’t stop momentum.
What We're Reading
David Woody Walks Back Across The Bridge
The outgoing CEO of the city’s largest homeless shelter on increased demand, FIFA, and the importance of being downtown.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
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The Kids Are All Right at Prosperity Park
How a rubble-ridden lot in Oak Cliff became a safe place for children who do far more than play.
NEIGHBORHOODS
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The Public Won’t Be Seeing the State’s Report on Foster Care Problems
A judge this week allowed a report on North Texas’ troubled foster care provider to be sealed.
