USA Today removes 23 stories after probe finds reporter apparently 'fabricated' quotes
CNN
USA Today on Thursday said that it had removed 23 stories from its website after an internal investigation found that one of its journalists had apparently "fabricated" quotes in her stories.
"After receiving an external correction request, USA Today audited the reporting work of Gabriela Miranda," said an editor's note written by USA Today's managing editor of standards, Michael McCarter. "The audit revealed that some individuals quoted were not affiliated with the organizations claimed and appeared to be fabricated. The existence of other individuals quoted could not be independently verified. In addition, some stories included quotes that should have been credited to others."
"As a result," the note added, "USA Today removed 23 articles from its website and other platforms for not meeting our editorial standards."
After recent burglaries at homes of professional athletes – including Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce – the NFL and NBA have issued security memos to teams and players warning that “organized and skilled groups” are increasingly targeting players’ residences for such crimes.