Sammy Caiola is WHYY News’ first-ever gun violence prevention reporter. She is committed to doing trauma-informed journalism driven by the communities she covers. She has been a health reporter for the last eight years, first at The Sacramento Bee and then at Capital Public Radio. Her podcast, “After the Assault,” explores the journey to justice and healing for survivors of sexual violence. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, dancing, and playing with her Labrador, Pepper.
More from the Contributor
Pa. lawmakers push for state funding for school monitoring program in hopes of slowing gun violence
The School District of Philadelphia launched its Safe Path gun violence prevention program in 2022. Pa. lawmakers are now calling for $50 million in state funds to expand it.
17 hours ago
Philadelphia Crime Summit to lay out gun violence prevention blueprint
Activists, lawmakers, and business leaders will spend Saturday discussing gun violence action items. They plan to send a “white paper” to the next mayor.
2 days ago
Former PPD officer charged with sexually abusing minors had history of citizen complaints
PPD records show there were 12 citizen complaints against Patrick Heron before 2018. He’s set to face trial for more than 200 criminal charges related to sexual offenses.
3 days ago
Patrick Heron retired from the PPD in 2019. Between 2022 and 2023, he’s been arrested three times on more than 200 charges of sexual crimes.
1 week ago
The Citizens Police Oversight Commission has released updates to prior changes on officer discipline, and recommended new reforms.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:18
The city of Philadelphia is suing the state over the right to pass local firearms legislation. The Pa. Supreme Court heard arguments today.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:19
Pa. Supreme Court to hear arguments over whether Philly can enact its own, stricter gun laws
“This is a novel issue, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a winnable issue,” said Shaundra Kellam Lewis.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:10
Ahead of school year, Philadelphia activists, federal lawmakers push for federal assault weapons ban
A federal ban on assault weapons could keep children safer from gun violence at school this year, lawmakers and advocates say.
4 weeks ago
In the wake of Eddie Irizarry Jr. killing, advocates march for police accountability, transparency
The peaceful march ended in front of the Philadelphia 24th Police District station.
4 weeks ago
Listen 1:19
The city of Philadelphia says there will be more police officers around school campuses this fall in an effort to prevent gun violence.
1 month ago
In Philadelphia, where relationships between police officers and residents are already strained, the fatal shooting of Eddie Irizarry Jr. could have larger consequences.
1 month ago
What’s Philadelphia doing on gun violence prevention? New guide provides updates and lays out assets
City of Philadelphia public safety leaders have made a resource guide to help point residents affected by gun violence to services.
1 month ago