The Cruelest Cuts

The Charlotte Observer's "Cruelest Cuts" series was published Feb. 10-15, 2008. It showed how one company ignored and threatened injured workers as it created an illusion of safety inside its plants. The stories have led to congressional hearings, federal investigations, the indictment of a top company manager, more staff for safety regulators and new federal legislation to curb the underreporting of workplace injuries.

The stories and follow-ups can also be found at www.charlotteobserver.com/poultry.

Series reprint

Day 1: The Human Cost of Bringing Poultry to Your Table

Day 2: Fight and Might Day 3: Misery on the Line Day 4: Workers Say They Are Denied Proper Medical Care Day 5: Pain Behind Safety Streak Day 6: Workplace Inspections at 15-Year Low Follows, Opinion