Matt's Latest Articles

Atlanta City Hall Tower, viewed from below. Vanessa Manley
Whistleblowers targeted in Atlanta’s Department of Procurement, employee union alleges

In early April, City of Atlanta Department of Procurement employees who had previously filed complaints with the city’s oversight offices were terminated. Union representatives questioned whether this violated the city's whistleblower protections.

Xavier de Janon, defense attorney for one of the Stop Cop City RICO and domestic terrorism defendants, speaks during a press conference following the May 14 status hearing.
Stop Cop City RICO trials set to begin this summer, judge says

May 14 status hearing set plans to streamline the complex 61-person racketeering case under a new judge. Defense attorneys face tight deadlines ahead of trials anticipated to begin this summer.

Community members march through Downtown Atlanta on May Day to protest the Trump Administration's policies impacting working-class people.
May Day in Atlanta: Photos of the ‘Stop the Billionaire Agenda’ rally

Hundreds rally in support of workers' and immigrants' rights during the May Day Atlanta "Stop the Billionaire Agenda" Protest

ICE used database terminations to pressure international students to “self-deport,” attorney claims
Georgia Republicans move to gut Open Records Act as legislative session closes
Andre Dickens stands on a stage in dark lighting with a hint of blue. He is wearing a dark suit and vest with a purple tie and light colored shirt. He is pointing and looking at the camera. He stands behind a blue podium. The upper left corner of the Georgia State Flag is visible behind him.
Whistleblowers in Office of Inspector General allege widespread corruption at highest levels of city government
A cinematic still of Jamie Mariscano, a white nonbinary person with medium-length dark blonde hair wearing a white t-shirt. Jamie is smiling. The setting is close to dusk, with long shadows. The sun frames left side of Jamie's face. Only the upper quarter of Jamie is visible. The setting is woodsy, with trees visible but slightly blurry in the background. The
Activist charged with RICO sues Atlanta Police Department for adopting policy of “systemic arrests and pretextual charges” of Stop Cop City protesters
Following inspector general’s resignation, city attorney, police raid offices of remaining OIG employees
ICE transfers detainees to Atlanta’s federal prison, hindering access to legal aid

The Trump administration’s transfer of ICE detainees to federal prisons is disrupting access to legal counsel, heightening deportation risks, and exposing immigrants to inhumane conditions, sparking outrage among advocates and attorneys.

Inspector General Shannon Manigault standing at a podium inside Atlanta City Council Chambers
“As damaging as one could imagine,” City Council introduces legislation to weaken oversight