Bad City

1. Investigative journalism exposes corruption at prestigious institutions

"Carmen Puliafito, a Harvard-trained eye surgeon, inventor, and big-dollar rainmaker who straddled the highest reaches of the medical world and academia."

Uncovering the unthinkable: The Los Angeles Times investigation into USC's medical school dean, Carmen Puliafito, revealed a shocking double life of drug abuse and association with criminals. This case exemplified how even the most respected institutions can harbor deep-seated corruption.

Ripple effects: The exposure of Puliafito's behavior led to further investigations, uncovering additional scandals at USC, including the George Tyndall sexual abuse case and the "Varsity Blues" college admissions scandal. These revelations demonstrated the far-reaching impact of thorough investigative journalism in holding powerful institutions accountable.

2. USC's leadership prioritized reputation over student safety

"USC now believes it should have filed a consumer complaint with the Medical Board earlier in 2017 when Tyndall resigned."

Institutional failure: USC's administration, under President C.L. Max Nikias, repeatedly failed to address serious allegations against staff members, including Puliafito and Tyndall. Their primary concern appeared to be protecting the university's reputation rather than ensuring student safety.

Delayed action: The university's reluctance to report Tyndall to the Medical Board and law enforcement, despite years of complaints, highlighted a systemic problem in handling misconduct allegations. This pattern of behavior ultimately led to more victims and larger settlements, severely damaging USC's reputation and finances.

3. Whistleblowers face retaliation but drive crucial change

"I told the staff I would get him out, and it didn't happen," Gilbert said.

Courage under pressure: Cindy Gilbert, a nurse at USC's student health center, faced retaliation after reporting George Tyndall's misconduct to the campus rape crisis center. Despite the personal cost, her actions ultimately led to Tyndall's removal and a broader investigation.

Institutional resistance: Gilbert's experience highlighted the challenges whistleblowers face in large institutions. Her persistence, along with other staff members who spoke out, was crucial in eventually bringing about change and justice for Tyndall's victims.

4. Media ownership conflicts compromise journalistic integrity

"Maharaj and Duvoisin warmed themselves in the glow of the story's huge readership."

Editorial interference: The Times' investigation into USC was initially hampered by top editors Davan Maharaj and Marc Duvoisin, who appeared to have conflicts of interest with the university. Their actions in delaying and attempting to water down the story raised serious questions about journalistic independence.

Overcoming obstacles: The persistence of the reporting team, led by Paul Pringle, in pushing the story forward despite internal resistance demonstrated the importance of journalistic integrity and the need for newsroom cultures that support investigative reporting.

5. Persistence and teamwork are essential in uncovering complex scandals

"The reporting team was wrapping up a story on USC's latest attempt to bind the Puliafito wounds to its reputation."

Collaborative effort: The USC investigations required a team of dedicated reporters working together over an extended period. Their combined efforts in tracking down sources, analyzing documents, and following leads were crucial to uncovering the full scope of the scandals.

Overcoming roadblocks: The team faced numerous challenges, including institutional stonewalling, legal threats, and internal newsroom conflicts. Their persistence in pursuing the story, even in the face of these obstacles, ultimately led to significant revelations and institutional change.

6. Sexual abuse in university settings often involves systemic failures

"The complaints began in the 1990s, when co-workers alleged he was improperly photographing students' genitals."

Long-standing problems: The George Tyndall case revealed how sexual abuse can persist in university settings for decades due to institutional neglect and cover-ups. Complaints about Tyndall dated back to the 1990s, yet he was allowed to continue practicing until 2016.

Widespread impact: The case affected hundreds of women over several decades, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of institutional failure to address sexual misconduct allegations promptly and thoroughly.

7. College admissions scandal reveals deep-rooted inequalities

"USC is very unique," Rosen said.

Exploiting the system: The "Varsity Blues" scandal, which disproportionately involved USC, exposed how wealthy parents could manipulate the college admissions process through bribes and fraud. This revelation highlighted broader issues of inequality and privilege in higher education.

Institutional vulnerabilities: USC's unique admissions process for athletes made it particularly susceptible to Singer's scheme, raising questions about the integrity of college admissions practices more broadly.

8. Journalism can catalyze institutional reform and justice

"Nothing will ever undo the harm that George Tyndall inflicted on his patients, much of it life-altering for the women. But more than $1.1 billion in settlements brought them a measure of justice."

Tangible impact: The Los Angeles Times' investigations led to significant changes at USC, including leadership changes, policy reforms, and substantial financial settlements for victims. This demonstrated the power of journalism to effect real-world change.

Broader implications: The investigations also sparked discussions about institutional accountability, campus safety, and the role of leadership in higher education, potentially influencing practices at other universities.

9. Ethical leadership is crucial for maintaining institutional integrity

"I think this is a time where Max really has to reflect on what's best for the university, what's best for the students, and make a decision himself," Caruso said.

Leadership failures: The scandals at USC highlighted the critical role of ethical leadership in maintaining institutional integrity. President Nikias's failure to address serious allegations effectively ultimately led to his resignation and damage to the university's reputation.

Calls for accountability: The aftermath of the scandals saw increased demands for transparency and accountability in university governance, emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize student safety and institutional ethics over reputation management.

10. The power of investigative reporting to effect social change

"Impact usually goes unrecognized by journalism award committees (there are only so many prizes out there), but it is far more meaningful. It is the umbrella term for why we do what we do."

Beyond recognition: While the USC investigations won a Pulitzer Prize, the true measure of their success was the real-world impact they had on victims, institutional policies, and public awareness of these issues.

Catalyst for change: The investigations demonstrated how in-depth, persistent reporting can drive significant social and institutional changes, holding powerful entities accountable and giving voice to those who have been silenced or ignored.

Last updated: January 24, 2025