Sam Smink

Sam Smink couldn't be happier to be the new Chief Investigative Reporter for WFSB Channel 3, joining the Eyewitness News Team in August 2022.

Sam previously worked only a few hours away, as an investigative reporter for 7News in Boston, MA.

Before coming to New England, Sam spent 6 years in warmer weather, working as an investigative reporter in both West Palm Beach and Fort Myers, Florida. She started her career as an anchor/reporter in Elmira, New York. Sam is originally from Philadelphia so cold weather doesn't scare her, and she has great cheesesteak recommendations.

Sam's reporting over the years has changed laws, prompted internal affairs investigations at the state and local level, and resignations from top officials at major agencies. She's also gotten results for dozens and dozens of viewers across many states.

Her reporting in Boston on the city's citizen review board for police complaints, or lack thereof, led to the creation of a new and improved board, with more power than before. She also got a MA landlord to fix a major foundation problem on the spot for a tenant, as well as uncovered a local contractor using the license of another to do construction projects.

In Florida, Sam's reporting changed Florida health policy after she found unsafe food being delivered to day cares, putting children at major risk. Her investigations into allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation inside Palm Beach County Fire Rescue led to the firing and forced retirements of three top chiefs. She has also reported extensively on problems inside Florida’s Department of Children and Families.

Sam loves being able to continue to call New England her home.

Sam wants to hear your stories, your issues, and what you think needs to change. Her goal is to help make the community a better place, and that involves asking tough questions. If you have a story you think she should investigate, please reach out at sam.smink@wfsb.com.

She's also new to Connecticut, so would appreciate any tips about where to visit and where to eat.

Education: Penn State University

Awards:

5 time Emmy nominee (covering Florida and Massachusetts)

Winner of multiple Florida Society of Professional Journalists awards

Winner of Florida Associated Press Broadcast Association Awards, as well as the recipient of multiple nominations