The watchdog role can be weakened or is can be magnified by investigative reporting. Broken Homes: Where Hope Dies, an investigative report in the New York Times written by Clifford J. Levy, could be considered exceptional in its watchdog efforts. The story is one of a facility that supposedly took care of disabled people. The journalist uncovered a sad truth: what was once a home of hope for disabled people soon became a house of neglect and abuse. Inappropriate and illegal activities such as prostitution, drug dealing, and beatings took place daily. One worker said when residents died, they gave their Social Security numbers to illegal immigrants they hired. Levy, with the help of New York Times, uncovered these monstrosities going on inside. It took more than 10 visits to the facility, over 50 interviews with residents and workers, and the studying of over 500 pages of state inspection reports and government documents to uncover the horrific truth. The facility created false records for inspections and although there were obviously problems, the state was not taking action. 

Investigative reporting that sheds light on issues such as this one makes the public aware of what is going on. This increases the probability of someone taking action and making a change. It also increases the probability that justice will be served by those who are guilty. This is an outstanding example of the importance and potential of good investigative reporting.