Haley Willis

I am a New York Times reporter working on the Visual Investigations team, where I combine traditional reporting with digital methods to investigate issues of conflict, corruption and human rights.

What I Cover

I use emerging techniques to uncover and analyze open source information. I primarily focus on visual evidence, which can include videos and photos from social media, security camera footage and satellite imagery. I also utilize the approaches of a traditional investigative journalist — interviewing experts, knocking on doors and gathering evidence directly from sources.

Much of my work has been reporting on conflict and human rights, from police killings during traffic stops to airstrikes in Gaza to forced labor in China.

My Background

Before joining The Times in 2019, I worked as a researcher with the Human Rights Center at Berkeley Law. In that work, I used similar methods as I do in my reporting now, investigating the sale of French arms to Egypt and torture by security forces in Cameroon. I also freelanced with the investigative collective Bellingcat, documenting airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.

I have a degree in sociology and media studies from the University of California, Berkeley. I live in Brooklyn, but home is Austin, Texas.

Journalistic Ethics

As a Times journalist, I adhere to the standards of integrity outlined in our Ethical Journalism Handbook.

My work centers heavily on accountability. I collect and assess independent evidence to investigate the truth, rather than relying only on the statements of those in power. I strive to be accurate and empathetic in my work. I frequently speak with people about personal tragedies and trauma, and my priority is to approach that work with sensitivity. Because my work often involves utilizing emerging digital techniques and data sources, I also look to uphold ethical standards regarding the use of these new methods.

• Email: haley.willis@nytimes.com

• X: @heytherehaley

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