Stephen Janis: Investigative Journalist and Advocate for Accountability

Stephen Janis is an award-winning investigative journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker known for his function on policing, corruption, and social justice issues. He currently serves as a Senior Investigative Reporter & Capitol Hill Correspondent at The Real News Network, where he focuses on uncovering systemic inequalities and advocating for transparency.

Early Career and Investigative Reporting

Janis began his career as an investigative producer for WBFF Fox 45, earning three Capital Emmys for his reporting. He transitioned to documentary filmmaking with “The Friendliest Town,” distributed by Gravitas Ventures, which received an Award of Distinction from The Impact Doc Film Festival and a Humanitarian Award from The Indie Film Fest. His work has also appeared on national television programs including Unsolved Mysteries (Netflix), Dead of Night (Investigation Discovery), Relentless (NBC), and Sins of the City (TV One).

The Police Accountability Report and Focus on Policing

Janis is the co-creator and co-host of “The Police Accountability Report” on The Real News Network, a program that has garnered over fifty million views on YouTube and sparked national conversations about policing and transparency. He has co-authored books examining issues within law enforcement, including Why Do We Kill: The Pathology of Murder in Baltimore and You Can’t Stop Murder: Truths About Policing in Baltimore and Beyond. His reporting has covered significant cases, such as the review of the tenure of Maryland’s former Chief Medical Examiner Dr. David Fowler following his testimony in the Derek Chauvin trial related to the murder of George Floyd The Real News Network.

Expanding Investigative Work: ICE, Border Patrol, and Cold Cases

Janis’s investigative work extends to examining the actions of federal agencies, including ICE and Border Patrol The Real News Network. He also co-hosts the true crime podcast “Land of the Unsolved,” which investigates cold cases with a focus on justice and accountability.

Commitment to Technology and Audience Engagement

Janis is recognized for his innovative use of technology in journalism. He employs data analysis, digital production, and emerging storytelling platforms to connect investigative reporting with younger audiences while maintaining journalistic integrity and depth. His approach emphasizes clarity, empathy, and the belief that journalism should empower people to take action based on the truth.