We filed a FOIA request… but what does that actually mean? 👀 (Part 2) #foia #crimejunkies | Forensic Files

So, here's how it goes. Anyone can file a FOIA request. Journalists, podcasters,
lawyers, or just regular people who want answers. You submit a request to a government agency asking for specific
records, and by law, they're required to respond. Now, does that mean that everything is always handed over neatly
and timely? Absolutely not. And that doesn't mean that they have to give you everything or even anything. There are
exclusions. These exclusions include things like information about active investigation situations where
disclosing certain information may interfere with the investigation or with like other law enforcement proceedings.
But when information is redacted, withheld, or a FOIA request is fully denied, that's not always the end. This
decision can be challenged. And if you know me, like you know I'm not afraid to challenge when uncovering the truth is
on the line. I mean, seriously, just like listen to our episode on the Day Stewart family to hear about how far we
will go. But FOIA requests are a huge reason we're able to always go a layer deeper on so many cases. A lot of times
they're how we're able to get the documents that we reference as we dive in. And they can help uncover mistakes,
uncover misconduct, and sometimes uncover the truth. And that's why this matters. Essentially, FOIA acts as a way
to turn government-held information in the public knowledge. To celebrate Freedom of Information Day this March,
we're bringing you behind the scenes into our investigation process and sharing even more information about
FOIA, about how it works, why it matters, and what happens when the people in power don't want to share the
information that we and you are entitled to. Keep an eye out to learn even more about our process from me and from Brit,
our reporters on our team, and even some other Audiochuck hosts. So, the next time you hear me say, "We submitted a
FOIA request," you're going to know exactly what we're talking about and why it matters. And while we're here, let us
know what parts of the process are you curious to learn more about?

FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) gives YOU the right to request records from the government — and it’s a huge part of how we dig deeper into cases. Check out part 1 if you haven't seen it yet on our channel or tagged below!

Drop your questions below ⬇️ What do you want to know about how we uncover the truth? -------- Follow Crime Junkie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crimejunkiepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrimeJunkiePodcast/ Crime Junkie is created and hosted by Ashley Flowers.

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About Ashley Flowers Ashley Flowers is the top female podcaster in the U.S. and the host of Crime Junkie, the #1 podcast among women and the #1 true crime podcast globally. As the Founder of audiochuck, she has built a top-tier podcast production company that has garnered over 2.6 billion downloads, captivating audiences with its gripping storytelling through 10+ chart topping podcasts. Ashley and her team are dedicated to creating responsible true crime content that respects victims and their families.

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Brief Summary

This episode explains the FOIA process, its challenges, and its importance in uncovering government-held information.

Key points

Understanding FOIA Requests. Anyone can file a FOIA request to access government records, but responses can vary.
The Importance of FOIA. FOIA requests help uncover mistakes and misconduct, making them crucial for transparency.

Episode highlights

The Importance of FOIAFOIA requests help uncover mistakes and misconduct, making them crucial for transparency.“FOIA acts as a way to turn government-held information into public knowledge.”1:08Mar 4, 2026

Episode quotes

I'm not afraid to challenge when uncovering the truth is on the line.

Discussing the importance of challenging FOIA decisions.

0:43WatchMar 4, 2026

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