Gopher Resource plant in Tampa
[ LUIS SANTANA | Times ]
POISONED
A Tampa Bay Times investigation
Part 1: The Factory
Toxic dust built up inside this Tampa factory for years. The consequences have been profound. (March 24, 2021)
Part 2: The Failings
Gopher Resource moved slowly to fix mechanical problems. As violations mounted, regulators have been missing in action. (March 29, 2021)
Part 3: The Fallout
Tampa’s lead factory promised changes. It kept polluting. Records show the company pumped lead into the air and mishandled hazardous waste. (Dec. 2, 2021)
About the reporters
Corey G. Johnson
is an investigative reporter for the Tampa Bay Times’…Read more
Rebecca Woolington
is an investigative reporter for the Tampa Bay Times’…Read more
Eli Murray
is a journalist who codes for the Tampa Bay Times…Read more
The team
- Reporters: Corey G. Johnson, Rebecca Woolington and Eli Murray
- Editors: Mark Katches, Kathleen McGrory, Adam Playford and Maria Carrillo
- Photographers: Martha Asencio-Rhine, Luis Santana, James Borchuck, Yalonda M. James and Octavio Jones
- Photo editor: Boyzell Hosey
- Graphics: Paul Alexander and Scott Brown
- Print design: Sean Kristoff-Jones
- Digital design: Martin Frobisher and Eli Murray
- Copy Editors: Dennis Peck, Tim Tierney and Greg Joyce
- Engagement: Ashley Dye, Josh Gillin and Carolyn Fox
- Video: Jennifer Glenfield and James Borchuck
- Consultants: Sarah Childress and Phil Bennett
- Legal: Carol LoCicero and Mark Caramanica
- Project Managers: Kathleen McGrory, Mark Katches and Adam Playford
We want to talk with you
Do you live in the neighborhoods of Grant Park, Oak Park, Florence Villa, Dixie Farms or Uceta Gardens in Hillsborough County? And do you suffer from these health issues?
- Heart ailments
- Kidney disease
- Infertility
- Hypertension
- Muscle weakness
- Behavioral problems
- Reduced attention span
- Cognitive disabilities
- Debilitating headaches
These are among the factors associated with high levels of lead exposure. Please contact us if you are interested in talking.