Jolie McCullough reported for The Times' Local Investigations Fellowship , which helps address the decline of local journalism, from Eagle Pass, Texas, a community with a shortage of reporters.

Fernando Padrón was trapped in a South Texas jail cell. Accused of stealing credit cards he used to buy diapers, a bicycle, and other items for his family, he hadn't appeared in court or spoken to a lawyer.

He didn't hear anything about his case for nine months. Finally, in March 2023, prosecutors charged him with a lesser crime, and he was released. But his ordeal had only just begun.