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Injustice Town: A Corrupt City, a Wrongly Convicted Man, and a Struggle for Freedom
The powerful story of a falsely imprisoned man and a sweeping indictment of a city and the criminal justice system by a Pulitzer-pize winning journalist.
When the bodies of two Black men were found sitting with a crackpipe in a parked car in a rundown section of town in 1994, it seemed just another day in Kansas City, Kansas. The swift arrest and conviction of a seventeen-year-old Black kid from a broken home raised no eyebrows either.
And yet, thirty years later, Lamonte McIntyre would prove to be the David that took down the Goliath of corruption that had long controlled the city’s power structure and enveloped the city’s justice system
But the effort to prove Lamonte’s innocence opened a Pandora’s box. Before it was over, the fight to win Lamonte’s exoneration exposed corrupt police and prosecutors, incompetent court-appointed defense lawyers, and a judge who violated ethical standards by his secret past relationship with the prosecutor, whom he favored in his rulings.
Injustice Town follows Lamonte’s case from its harrowing beginning to its triumphant end and beyond, including the legal tsunami that came in its wake, that engulfed prosecutors, attorneys, and judges. Most shockingly, the lead cop on the case was indicted by the Department of Justice for the widespread abuses he had committed years earlier on women in the Black community of Kansas City Kansas. Abuses documented by Lamonte’s team. The criminal case ended, literally, with a bang, denying Lamonte and those whom the detective hurt, the chance for them to seek their own justice.
Rick Tulsky, a Pulizer prize-winning journalist, goes beyond the courthouse, exposing the ways in which corruption flourished for decades in an erstwhile quiet Midwest town, a town once dedicated to justice and equality.
A lawyer by training as well as a reporter, Tulsky's narrative not only brings Lamonte's story to vivid life, it will empower cities, counties, states, and everyday citizens with a blueprint for equal justice. At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility for demanding fairness and justice, it is up to states, local governments, and we the people look to ways they can act. Vivid and unforgettable, Injustice Town tells the story of one man and shows us a vision of what a better future could be.
When the bodies of two Black men were found sitting with a crackpipe in a parked car in a rundown section of town in 1994, it seemed just another day in Kansas City, Kansas. The swift arrest and conviction of a seventeen-year-old Black kid from a broken home raised no eyebrows either.
And yet, thirty years later, Lamonte McIntyre would prove to be the David that took down the Goliath of corruption that had long controlled the city’s power structure and enveloped the city’s justice system
But the effort to prove Lamonte’s innocence opened a Pandora’s box. Before it was over, the fight to win Lamonte’s exoneration exposed corrupt police and prosecutors, incompetent court-appointed defense lawyers, and a judge who violated ethical standards by his secret past relationship with the prosecutor, whom he favored in his rulings.
Injustice Town follows Lamonte’s case from its harrowing beginning to its triumphant end and beyond, including the legal tsunami that came in its wake, that engulfed prosecutors, attorneys, and judges. Most shockingly, the lead cop on the case was indicted by the Department of Justice for the widespread abuses he had committed years earlier on women in the Black community of Kansas City Kansas. Abuses documented by Lamonte’s team. The criminal case ended, literally, with a bang, denying Lamonte and those whom the detective hurt, the chance for them to seek their own justice.
Rick Tulsky, a Pulizer prize-winning journalist, goes beyond the courthouse, exposing the ways in which corruption flourished for decades in an erstwhile quiet Midwest town, a town once dedicated to justice and equality.
A lawyer by training as well as a reporter, Tulsky's narrative not only brings Lamonte's story to vivid life, it will empower cities, counties, states, and everyday citizens with a blueprint for equal justice. At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility for demanding fairness and justice, it is up to states, local governments, and we the people look to ways they can act. Vivid and unforgettable, Injustice Town tells the story of one man and shows us a vision of what a better future could be.
432 pages, Hardcover
Published February 3, 2026
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May 3, 2026
Listen, I know it's cliché, but I am going to say it anyway. Injustice Town would be laughed out of the publishing house if it were fiction. Rick Tulsky tells the story of one of the most ridiculous miscarriages of justice I have ever read. Friendly reminder that I read a lot.
Lamonte McIntyre was minding his own business, but then was suddenly arrested for a double murder. Did he do it? Nope! However, I don't want to ruin the dramatic reveals of this disastrous story. I will leave it that at even the most generous reading of the prosecution's case would lead a person with rudimentary common sense to say, "What the fudge." They would not say fudge; they would say THE word.
Tulsky does not pull punches in his narrative and actually throws quite a few haymakers. If you don't like editorial comments here and there, I get it, but it's not frequent or distracting. And honestly, some of the things that happen defy belief. Yet, all true.
The only slight critique I would pose would be the last 10% or so of the book. Tulsky goes to wrap up a few characters' journeys but it starts to feel like a whole new narrative thread. None of it is completely out of left field, but Lamonte gets mostly lost in the shuffle when he has been the center of the rest of the book. Also, the coda to this one seems redundant because the miscarriage of justice is so blatant that it's not necessary to re-litigate. Others could reasonably disagree, but it doesn't matter anyway, because the rest of the book is so good that it's still a must-read.
(This book was provided as a review copy by Pegasus Books.)
Lamonte McIntyre was minding his own business, but then was suddenly arrested for a double murder. Did he do it? Nope! However, I don't want to ruin the dramatic reveals of this disastrous story. I will leave it that at even the most generous reading of the prosecution's case would lead a person with rudimentary common sense to say, "What the fudge." They would not say fudge; they would say THE word.
Tulsky does not pull punches in his narrative and actually throws quite a few haymakers. If you don't like editorial comments here and there, I get it, but it's not frequent or distracting. And honestly, some of the things that happen defy belief. Yet, all true.
The only slight critique I would pose would be the last 10% or so of the book. Tulsky goes to wrap up a few characters' journeys but it starts to feel like a whole new narrative thread. None of it is completely out of left field, but Lamonte gets mostly lost in the shuffle when he has been the center of the rest of the book. Also, the coda to this one seems redundant because the miscarriage of justice is so blatant that it's not necessary to re-litigate. Others could reasonably disagree, but it doesn't matter anyway, because the rest of the book is so good that it's still a must-read.
(This book was provided as a review copy by Pegasus Books.)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am so thankful to NetGalley for the ALC of this book. Shaaman Casey’s narration is beautiful, and made it a very engaging and easy listen.
I currently work in the public defender system in Kansas, and am recommending this as required reading for everyone I work with. I’ve already purchased multiple copies to give to offices in our area. I became an attorney right in the thick of Lamonte McIntyre’s battle to undo his wrongful conviction, years after his trial, appeal, and other post-conviction remedies had been completed. The work that was done on his behalf was more than I think anyone involved understood when they took on the leviathan task. Jim and Cheryl had to fight against every aspect of the system in undoing this conviction, and the fallout is far-reaching and still happening in 2025.
I loved how this book had a single focus around Lamonte’s case, but also reached out to examine the unique circumstances of Wyandotte County, the KCK police, the Wyandotte County bench and bar, and the Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office. It gave a good look as to how Lamonte particularly was touched by just about everything that could go wrong in the criminal legal system, which shows just how incredible it is that everything came together to necessitate his release. Yet, despite exposing the underbelly of each of these systems, the people exposed continue to fight against moving toward a more fair, transparent operation of government in that area.
Unfortunately, many involved in the criminal legal system understand that Lamonte’s case is not entirely unique. Police engage in unscrupulous and illegal practices on a regular basis. Prosecutors enable that behavior, and engage in their own practices that undermine the rule of law in pursuit of the conviction. Judges enable both of these entities in the name of moving things forward. Meanwhile, people accused of crime and those who are victims are crime end up being harmed. I appreciate any light that gets shined on these situations, particularly in this case, because it causes the public to take a hard look at what is happening and demand change. While it doesn’t happen overnight, it causes ripple effects that are long-felt.
This book was particularly interesting to me because I have closely watched all the proceedings since they started in the mid-2010s. I recognize many of the names of those involved, and have seen the progress happen in Wyandotte County firsthand. Rick Tulsky did an incredible job walking through the case, Lamonte’s life and experiences, and the aftermath of his release. There is still much work to be done in Wyandotte County, but Lamonte’s case will certainly leave a lasting legacy.
I currently work in the public defender system in Kansas, and am recommending this as required reading for everyone I work with. I’ve already purchased multiple copies to give to offices in our area. I became an attorney right in the thick of Lamonte McIntyre’s battle to undo his wrongful conviction, years after his trial, appeal, and other post-conviction remedies had been completed. The work that was done on his behalf was more than I think anyone involved understood when they took on the leviathan task. Jim and Cheryl had to fight against every aspect of the system in undoing this conviction, and the fallout is far-reaching and still happening in 2025.
I loved how this book had a single focus around Lamonte’s case, but also reached out to examine the unique circumstances of Wyandotte County, the KCK police, the Wyandotte County bench and bar, and the Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office. It gave a good look as to how Lamonte particularly was touched by just about everything that could go wrong in the criminal legal system, which shows just how incredible it is that everything came together to necessitate his release. Yet, despite exposing the underbelly of each of these systems, the people exposed continue to fight against moving toward a more fair, transparent operation of government in that area.
Unfortunately, many involved in the criminal legal system understand that Lamonte’s case is not entirely unique. Police engage in unscrupulous and illegal practices on a regular basis. Prosecutors enable that behavior, and engage in their own practices that undermine the rule of law in pursuit of the conviction. Judges enable both of these entities in the name of moving things forward. Meanwhile, people accused of crime and those who are victims are crime end up being harmed. I appreciate any light that gets shined on these situations, particularly in this case, because it causes the public to take a hard look at what is happening and demand change. While it doesn’t happen overnight, it causes ripple effects that are long-felt.
This book was particularly interesting to me because I have closely watched all the proceedings since they started in the mid-2010s. I recognize many of the names of those involved, and have seen the progress happen in Wyandotte County firsthand. Rick Tulsky did an incredible job walking through the case, Lamonte’s life and experiences, and the aftermath of his release. There is still much work to be done in Wyandotte County, but Lamonte’s case will certainly leave a lasting legacy.
April 3, 2026
The research is intricate and complex and well done, the situation is horrible, and the book is just fine.
July 2, 2026
Warning: this book will make you MAD!
Another enraging tale of corruption, false imprisonment, and accountability.
Another enraging tale of corruption, false imprisonment, and accountability.
February 5, 2026
Primary Takeaway: never live in Kansas City, Missouri, especially if you’re black. Cops remain corrupt despite work by the new district attorney.
May 26, 2026
The story and concept is interesting and important but the writing wasn’t that great in my opinion
June 26, 2026
This is a very effective book about a real shitshow of a case. A double homicide takes place in Kansas City, Kansas, and a young black teenager named LaMonte McIntyre is arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced to decades in jail.
The whole thing is crap. His defense attorney would later be disbarred for incompetence. A different defense attorrney would also later be disbarred for the same reason. (It's really rare and hard to be disbarred, so that's saying something that both his were. The prosecting attorney would also later be disbarred, not for incompetence but for ignoring basic ethics in securing convictions. This case would be part of that, as she coerced a witness into saying McIntyre was the murderer (the witness was told she'd lose custody of her kids if she didn't). The judge had an affair with the prosecutor. The cops lived up to every stereotype of racist and/or incompetent law enforcement officials. Most notalby, the lead cop on the case was widely known in the black part of town as an aggressive sexual predator.
The whole thing collpase on McIntyre, who spent 20+ years in jail. He was eventually released, and the ensuing backlash caused some of the dominoes to fall (like the prosecutor's disbarment, and the cop taking his own life when forced to confront his ethical lapses). That said, this isn't a feel-good ending, as Tulsky notes the issues here are systematic, and there is a real big backlash against reform effort. In fact, Tulsky calls it a "frontlash" where officals like Florida's Gov. DeSantis makes it impossible for local officals to do local reform, even when it has local support. In an epilogue section, Tulsky notes that when he asked experts about how the system could work so badly here, some countered it actually wasn't working badly, but this is frankly how it's designed to work. If some poor and marginalized get tossed in jail, so be it.
It is very good, but the main issue I have is the two the elements of the book - the story of McIntyre, and the larger overall critiques of the system, aren't always interwoven that well. Most notably, there is a 30-page afterward, about 4-5 times longer than an average chapter, which makes good points, but feels like it was written by someone else. Really, the entire last segment of the book loses moment.
It is still definitely worth reading, though.
The whole thing is crap. His defense attorney would later be disbarred for incompetence. A different defense attorrney would also later be disbarred for the same reason. (It's really rare and hard to be disbarred, so that's saying something that both his were. The prosecting attorney would also later be disbarred, not for incompetence but for ignoring basic ethics in securing convictions. This case would be part of that, as she coerced a witness into saying McIntyre was the murderer (the witness was told she'd lose custody of her kids if she didn't). The judge had an affair with the prosecutor. The cops lived up to every stereotype of racist and/or incompetent law enforcement officials. Most notalby, the lead cop on the case was widely known in the black part of town as an aggressive sexual predator.
The whole thing collpase on McIntyre, who spent 20+ years in jail. He was eventually released, and the ensuing backlash caused some of the dominoes to fall (like the prosecutor's disbarment, and the cop taking his own life when forced to confront his ethical lapses). That said, this isn't a feel-good ending, as Tulsky notes the issues here are systematic, and there is a real big backlash against reform effort. In fact, Tulsky calls it a "frontlash" where officals like Florida's Gov. DeSantis makes it impossible for local officals to do local reform, even when it has local support. In an epilogue section, Tulsky notes that when he asked experts about how the system could work so badly here, some countered it actually wasn't working badly, but this is frankly how it's designed to work. If some poor and marginalized get tossed in jail, so be it.
It is very good, but the main issue I have is the two the elements of the book - the story of McIntyre, and the larger overall critiques of the system, aren't always interwoven that well. Most notably, there is a 30-page afterward, about 4-5 times longer than an average chapter, which makes good points, but feels like it was written by someone else. Really, the entire last segment of the book loses moment.
It is still definitely worth reading, though.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The New Jim Crow meets Injustice Town! If you enjoyed that book, Injustice Town is for you. Filled with data, history and examples of how our justice system fails the marginalized, this book delivers a powerful message.
In this debut, investigative reporter, Rick Tulsky, examines a true crime story that is “harrowing” in its heinous miscarriage of justice. In Wyandotte County Kansas, part of Kansas City, it’s the conviction that matters, not the justice for the crime. Lamont McIntyre is identified as the murderer in a two person killing in 1994 and Kansas City, Kansas, in the 90s is suffering from a high crime rate and poor optics as a city. A swift conviction is necessary and that’s what happens putting a poor black 19 year old in prison for the next 30 years.
A grave miscarriage of justice has occurred. Corrupt police, prosecutors and a judge are at the bottom of this. McIntyre had a solid alibi for the time of the killings but as the story unfolds the despicable measures that people supposedly on the side of truth go beyond the pale. It wasn’t until Centurion Ministries, an Innocence style project, took the case and Susan Pilate worked diligently on the case that McIntyre was released.
Tulsky treats this story with meticulous detail, chronicling the devious, illegal and reprehensible actions of law enforcement and the justice system. It’s an exhaustive story - probably my only criticism of the book (but trust me once you get hooked on this book, you can’t stop listening or reading). He also writes about McIntyre’s slow and lonely initial efforts to reintegrate into society.
The epilogue brings the story full circle. I liked how the author brought you up-to-date on how our justice system is still so skewed against the marginalized of our society. If you haven’t read The New Jim Crow, this ending is a pretty nice summary of that book.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, the Dreamscape Media and the author for allowing me to listen to this ARC. I enjoyed the narrator too.
Highly recommend.
#injusticetown
#ricktulsky
#dreamscapemedia
In this debut, investigative reporter, Rick Tulsky, examines a true crime story that is “harrowing” in its heinous miscarriage of justice. In Wyandotte County Kansas, part of Kansas City, it’s the conviction that matters, not the justice for the crime. Lamont McIntyre is identified as the murderer in a two person killing in 1994 and Kansas City, Kansas, in the 90s is suffering from a high crime rate and poor optics as a city. A swift conviction is necessary and that’s what happens putting a poor black 19 year old in prison for the next 30 years.
A grave miscarriage of justice has occurred. Corrupt police, prosecutors and a judge are at the bottom of this. McIntyre had a solid alibi for the time of the killings but as the story unfolds the despicable measures that people supposedly on the side of truth go beyond the pale. It wasn’t until Centurion Ministries, an Innocence style project, took the case and Susan Pilate worked diligently on the case that McIntyre was released.
Tulsky treats this story with meticulous detail, chronicling the devious, illegal and reprehensible actions of law enforcement and the justice system. It’s an exhaustive story - probably my only criticism of the book (but trust me once you get hooked on this book, you can’t stop listening or reading). He also writes about McIntyre’s slow and lonely initial efforts to reintegrate into society.
The epilogue brings the story full circle. I liked how the author brought you up-to-date on how our justice system is still so skewed against the marginalized of our society. If you haven’t read The New Jim Crow, this ending is a pretty nice summary of that book.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, the Dreamscape Media and the author for allowing me to listen to this ARC. I enjoyed the narrator too.
Highly recommend.
#injusticetown
#ricktulsky
#dreamscapemedia
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing an ALC of Injustice Town - A Corrupt City, a Wrongly Convicted Man, and a Struggle for Freedom by Rick Tulsky, narrated by Shamaan Casey.
This is an incredibly tragic, infuriating, and hopeful story about the struggles of one man falsely imprisoned man and a sweeping indictment of a city and the criminal justice system. Listening to this story about a man arrested, charged, and found guilty of murder erroneously, I would have assumed this incident took place in the 1950s, I was in shock that such injustices were still occurring in the United States in the 1990s. The corruption and lawlessness in Kansas City, KS in the 1990s was so rampant, I would not be surprised if there were many other men of color that were falsely accused and arrested during this time. Readers will experience a vast array of emotions due to the facts of the well-researched story by the author, but the narrator will evoke emotions of listeners as well. The narrator has an incredibly clear voice and is able to add emotion to the an already emotional story through his tone and cadence.
I highly recommend this audiobook as it is incredibly well produced and only adds to the story which is already inconceivable and frustrating. I prefer listening to non-fiction and would listen to anything Shamaan Casey narrates.
This is an incredibly tragic, infuriating, and hopeful story about the struggles of one man falsely imprisoned man and a sweeping indictment of a city and the criminal justice system. Listening to this story about a man arrested, charged, and found guilty of murder erroneously, I would have assumed this incident took place in the 1950s, I was in shock that such injustices were still occurring in the United States in the 1990s. The corruption and lawlessness in Kansas City, KS in the 1990s was so rampant, I would not be surprised if there were many other men of color that were falsely accused and arrested during this time. Readers will experience a vast array of emotions due to the facts of the well-researched story by the author, but the narrator will evoke emotions of listeners as well. The narrator has an incredibly clear voice and is able to add emotion to the an already emotional story through his tone and cadence.
I highly recommend this audiobook as it is incredibly well produced and only adds to the story which is already inconceivable and frustrating. I prefer listening to non-fiction and would listen to anything Shamaan Casey narrates.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Injustice Town" is a riveting, heart wrenching story of a man who was falsely accused and convicted of a double murder. His fight for justice and freedom is not only about himself, but uncovers deeply-rooted and systemic corruption across the county and state criminal justice system at all levels - from police practices, to the prosecutor office; to the challenges with some public defenders and appointment systems, to the appeals process. The most gut-wrenching thing is that though the murder happened in the early 1990s, the challenges described in this book were still ongoing in 2025.
The author did an excellent and thorough job investigating and researching this book. The narration was concise, gripping, and informative, while never losing sight of the humanity and feelings that Lamonte was experiencing during his wrongful conviction and incarceration. Brining light to these injustices is the only way to spark and drive reform - and the author did this in a powerful way. I look forward to seeing what the author tackles next!
I listened to this book as an audiobook narrated by Shamaan Casey. The narrator was the perfect choice for this story, really driving home the emotions being felt as the story progressed. He does talk slower than some narrators, so I listened to the book at 1.5x speed to feel he was talking at a normal "conversation" pace.
The author did an excellent and thorough job investigating and researching this book. The narration was concise, gripping, and informative, while never losing sight of the humanity and feelings that Lamonte was experiencing during his wrongful conviction and incarceration. Brining light to these injustices is the only way to spark and drive reform - and the author did this in a powerful way. I look forward to seeing what the author tackles next!
I listened to this book as an audiobook narrated by Shamaan Casey. The narrator was the perfect choice for this story, really driving home the emotions being felt as the story progressed. He does talk slower than some narrators, so I listened to the book at 1.5x speed to feel he was talking at a normal "conversation" pace.
February 21, 2026
Thank you to LibroFM for the advanced listening copy.
Lamonte McIntyre spent 23 years behind bars in Kansas, charged with a double homicide that he did not commit.
A victim of a corrupt system, poor legal representation, racism and poverty, McIntyre's case sparked an investigation and eventual overhaul of the endemic misconduct that had been going on for years in the county.
The criminal behaviour of former detective Roger Golubski who was involved with his arrest had been allowed to persist unchecked, his victims left frustrated and angered when his long awaited trial did not end in justice prevailing as he committed suicide the night before.
Despite being left with PTSD as a result of his time in jail, McIntyre has used his time since release to partner in a non-profit called 'Miracle of Innocence' helping other wrongly accused prisoners.
As highlighted in Michael Mansfield book 'The Power in the People' I recently reviewed, this is another book that highlights the need for incredible patience, resilience and determination for justice to finally prevail in some of our corrupt institutions.
Lamonte McIntyre spent 23 years behind bars in Kansas, charged with a double homicide that he did not commit.
A victim of a corrupt system, poor legal representation, racism and poverty, McIntyre's case sparked an investigation and eventual overhaul of the endemic misconduct that had been going on for years in the county.
The criminal behaviour of former detective Roger Golubski who was involved with his arrest had been allowed to persist unchecked, his victims left frustrated and angered when his long awaited trial did not end in justice prevailing as he committed suicide the night before.
Despite being left with PTSD as a result of his time in jail, McIntyre has used his time since release to partner in a non-profit called 'Miracle of Innocence' helping other wrongly accused prisoners.
As highlighted in Michael Mansfield book 'The Power in the People' I recently reviewed, this is another book that highlights the need for incredible patience, resilience and determination for justice to finally prevail in some of our corrupt institutions.
February 9, 2026
4.5✨ Injustice Town is a meticulously researched and powerfully written book about Lamont McIntyre and the city of Kansas City, Kansas. Lamont was falsely accused and convicted of a double murder at just 17 years old, spending 30 years behind bars before finally being exonerated. His case not only led to his freedom but also exposed widespread corruption within the police force and judicial system. It was absolutely jaw-dropping.
The audiobook narration was excellent and made a huge difference, especially for a nonfiction story. It covered both the details of the case and Lamont’s life after his release, as well as what ultimately happened to the people involved in his prosecution.
I did dock a few points because certain sections felt drawn out. While the research was thorough and impressive, some parts could have benefited from tighter editing for brevity.
Thanks to NetGalley and dreamscape media for the advanced listener copy.
Version: 🎧
The audiobook narration was excellent and made a huge difference, especially for a nonfiction story. It covered both the details of the case and Lamont’s life after his release, as well as what ultimately happened to the people involved in his prosecution.
I did dock a few points because certain sections felt drawn out. While the research was thorough and impressive, some parts could have benefited from tighter editing for brevity.
Thanks to NetGalley and dreamscape media for the advanced listener copy.
Version: 🎧
February 26, 2026
A brilliantly-told true story of one man's struggle for justice . . . and more
An eye-opening account not only of one man's decades-long struggle for justice but of the tangled web of corruption behind his wrongful conviction. Author and Pulitzer prize-winning investigative reporter Rick Tulsky examines every detail of Lamonte McIntyre's case, exposing the neglect, deception, and total disregard for the law that resulted in an innocent man spending 23 years behind bars. But Tulsky does not stop there. His scathing indictment of our American justice system effectively highlights the alarming scope of its failures, while clearly acknowledging the difficult challenges involved in trying to fix it. Tulsky's writing is colorful and bold, making Lamonte's story come alive, giving readers a powerful dose of reality they won't soon forget. A literary, legal, and intellectual tour de force. Highly recommended.
An eye-opening account not only of one man's decades-long struggle for justice but of the tangled web of corruption behind his wrongful conviction. Author and Pulitzer prize-winning investigative reporter Rick Tulsky examines every detail of Lamonte McIntyre's case, exposing the neglect, deception, and total disregard for the law that resulted in an innocent man spending 23 years behind bars. But Tulsky does not stop there. His scathing indictment of our American justice system effectively highlights the alarming scope of its failures, while clearly acknowledging the difficult challenges involved in trying to fix it. Tulsky's writing is colorful and bold, making Lamonte's story come alive, giving readers a powerful dose of reality they won't soon forget. A literary, legal, and intellectual tour de force. Highly recommended.
February 2, 2026
A well written deep dive into the justice system of Kansas City. The book offers far more than just discussing one man's journey to exoneration, which I absolutely loved. It talks about the history of Kansas City and how it came to be the city it is today. It discusses corruption on every level. It discusses the legal system and how it fails. The book brings each of the situations to light with real world examples and stories. You become personally invested in everything happening. I love this type of book, and this one really pulled me in. Excellent book that I recommend for anyone interested in Kansas City, corruption, or our justice system.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a wonderful job. He was articulate and was not monotone. Easy listen.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for an ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a wonderful job. He was articulate and was not monotone. Easy listen.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for an ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
February 3, 2026
It doesn't matter how many books I read, I am always blown away over the corruption in certain cities. And, to make it worse, KCK's corruption has only recently came to light and steps are being taken to make things right.
This book is well researched and for the most part, engaging.
It is not without faults. The length is not justified.
-There are tangents (example- Lamonte's attorney's death penalty cases) that are unnecessary. To use my example- they are tragic. And they explain why there were delays in Lamonte getting justice, however, they could have been greatly pared down.
-It is also repetitive at times- especially the afterward. We didn't need yet another lecture on attorneys for the indigent- the corruption, the cost, the methods.
Shamaan Casey narrates the audiobook.
This book is well researched and for the most part, engaging.
It is not without faults. The length is not justified.
-There are tangents (example- Lamonte's attorney's death penalty cases) that are unnecessary. To use my example- they are tragic. And they explain why there were delays in Lamonte getting justice, however, they could have been greatly pared down.
-It is also repetitive at times- especially the afterward. We didn't need yet another lecture on attorneys for the indigent- the corruption, the cost, the methods.
Shamaan Casey narrates the audiobook.
February 17, 2026
My Top Read of 2026: Injustice Town-- 5 stars
"If Americans were as concerned with true justice as they are with true crime, we would be a better nation."
Injustice Town tells the heartbreaking story of Lamont McIntyre, a man wrongfully convicted of a double homicide as a teenager. Despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence—including testimony from the victims' own families—Lamont spent over 20 years waiting for the legal system to admit its "error." What unfolds next is a scandal that rocked Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) to its core.
The book follows Lamont’s journey from a stolen youth to his mid-forties and his eventual life beyond bars. It is a stunning testament to perseverance and an unshakeable commitment to the truth. When Lamont reaches out to Centurion Ministries, he expects a swift resolution given the blatant injustices of his trial. Instead, he is met with decades of uphill battles, uncovering a web of corruption that has impacted more minorities than he ever imagined.
From a predatory police officer to inappropriate backroom relationships between judges and prosecutors, the narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat. The constant "counting" of birthdays and holidays lost is a gut-wrenching reminder of the life stolen from him just to protect the illegal behavior of those in power.
McIntyre’s case eventually blew the lid off the KCK District Attorney’s office, even drawing the intervention of the Department of Justice. The book concludes with a necessary, reflective discussion on what true reform looks like in the United States.
Vibe: Part Serial podcast, part systemic critique, and part story of radical hope.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Final Verdict: This is a must-read for everyone. I would be shocked if this doesn’t make the New York Times Top 100 Books of the Year.
Thank you Net Galley for the Advanced Listener Copy.
"If Americans were as concerned with true justice as they are with true crime, we would be a better nation."
Injustice Town tells the heartbreaking story of Lamont McIntyre, a man wrongfully convicted of a double homicide as a teenager. Despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence—including testimony from the victims' own families—Lamont spent over 20 years waiting for the legal system to admit its "error." What unfolds next is a scandal that rocked Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) to its core.
The book follows Lamont’s journey from a stolen youth to his mid-forties and his eventual life beyond bars. It is a stunning testament to perseverance and an unshakeable commitment to the truth. When Lamont reaches out to Centurion Ministries, he expects a swift resolution given the blatant injustices of his trial. Instead, he is met with decades of uphill battles, uncovering a web of corruption that has impacted more minorities than he ever imagined.
From a predatory police officer to inappropriate backroom relationships between judges and prosecutors, the narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat. The constant "counting" of birthdays and holidays lost is a gut-wrenching reminder of the life stolen from him just to protect the illegal behavior of those in power.
McIntyre’s case eventually blew the lid off the KCK District Attorney’s office, even drawing the intervention of the Department of Justice. The book concludes with a necessary, reflective discussion on what true reform looks like in the United States.
Vibe: Part Serial podcast, part systemic critique, and part story of radical hope.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Final Verdict: This is a must-read for everyone. I would be shocked if this doesn’t make the New York Times Top 100 Books of the Year.
Thank you Net Galley for the Advanced Listener Copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Injustice Town examines the history and depth of corruption in Kansas City, Kansas by examining what led to the wrongful conviction of Lamonte McIntyre. This book is a great read for both the true crime girlies and the social justice readers, as it goes in depth into why McIntyre was convicted to life within six months of the double murder occurring, and to how extremely difficult it was for him to get his case, and its numerous errors, heard before a court. Tulsky does not ignore the legal complexities of appellate and post-conviction law and procedure, but he does write it in a manner that is easily understood. This book will leave you angry, and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 8, 2026
As someone from KCK, I remember being appalled when learning about this case and the corruption of our city government when it first came out. This book solidified my disgust with our broken justice system. It is broken across the entirety of the United States, not just here, but this is a great example of just how that cracked system manifests. The more cases like this that get exposed, the better. Nobody deserves to have years of their lives stolen from them like this, and the fact that there are likely so many more innocent people of color sitting in jail right now for crimes they didn’t commit is sickening. This book is very well written and researched, and I am glad this story is being shared with the world.
March 19, 2026
A journalistic masterpiece. I once heard a journalism professor say that the purpose of the fourth estate is to fight for truth and justice, to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. By that standard, I can think of no greater piece of journalism than Injustice Town. It is blood boiling and brilliantly researched, shocking even in an arena known for malfeasance and with jaw-dropping details a novelist would be hard-pressed to invent. The pinnacle of Rick Tulsky’s distinguished investigative reporting career, Injustice Town is hard but essential reading for anyone who cares about public accountability in the United States. I will never forget Lamonte McIntyre and the wrong done to him, his family and his community.
February 23, 2026
This is a very thorough and well structured look at our criminal justice system. I appreciated how Rick Tulsky successfully balances the personal level of Lamonte McIntyre's story and the larger issues in the Kansas City system. It was heartbreaking to learn about all the moments that the system failed, but at the same time it was all very easy to follow. I especially appreciated how the book continued to follow the consequences of Lamonte's exoneration. Shamaan Casey did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. His narration made it very easy to follow the various facts and events.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing an ALC in return for my honest thoughts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing an ALC in return for my honest thoughts.
April 26, 2026
This story deserves to be told and consumed. I live and work for the "corrupt city" at the forefront of this investigative work. I am proud of the work I do on the forensic side of the line but am not naive to the injustices that can take place when a system breaks down. Lamonte McIntyre's life is a cautionary tale to all law enforcement and district attorney's offices across the nation. This book should be required reading for all on how to spot wrongdoing and to stop it before you ever have to find yourself defending the dirt to save yourself and your organization. What's done in the dark always comes to light.
February 25, 2026
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an audio ARC.
Injustice Town is very well written and delves into a lot of details surrounding this case and even looks a ar a few others where the justice system has failed in major ways. This book really delves into the topic of wrongful conviction and why it happens. I really liked how much detail was put into this book and how it looks at those who have been harmed by wrongful conviction. The narrator is also excellent and I loved listening to him as he added some extra depth to this book with his performance.
Injustice Town is very well written and delves into a lot of details surrounding this case and even looks a ar a few others where the justice system has failed in major ways. This book really delves into the topic of wrongful conviction and why it happens. I really liked how much detail was put into this book and how it looks at those who have been harmed by wrongful conviction. The narrator is also excellent and I loved listening to him as he added some extra depth to this book with his performance.
May 3, 2026
The true story of Lamonte McIntyre, who was falsely accused and convicted of a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas. Tulsky outlines the way the "witnesses", judges, public defenders, and prison system all failed McIntyre, leading him to spend 30 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. The book is an indictment of the entire KCK legal system and details some pretty shocking corruption and abuses of civil liberties, and goes way beyond McIntyre's case. Kind of gets bogged down in a huge cast of people involved in this case, so it was hard to keep track of who was who.
May 8, 2026
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ARC audiobook for review. This book tells the true story of Lamonte McIntyre and how he was railroaded and wrongly convicted at 17 yrs old for a crime that he did not commit that took place in 1994. Lamonte McIntyre spent YEARS in jail until his case was looked into further and was appealed. This book describes the blatant racial injustice and abuse towards the Black community in Kansas City, Kansas and brings to light the corruptness in police, prosecutors, lawyers, and a judge.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Received ARC from NetGalley
A compelling, thought‑provoking read. Injustice Town blends strong investigative insight with a gripping narrative that exposes the complexities of corruption and accountability. The author’s storytelling is sharp and engaging, and the real‑world resonance gives the book extra weight. While a few sections move a bit slowly, the overall impact is powerful and memorable. A solid, eye‑opening read.
A compelling, thought‑provoking read. Injustice Town blends strong investigative insight with a gripping narrative that exposes the complexities of corruption and accountability. The author’s storytelling is sharp and engaging, and the real‑world resonance gives the book extra weight. While a few sections move a bit slowly, the overall impact is powerful and memorable. A solid, eye‑opening read.
February 16, 2026
This was a deep, deep dive into a case that exemplifies the really horrific criminal justice system we're still deeply ingrained with (and I especially appreciated how clearly Tulsky draws us into the larger political sphere, though it's also unbelievably depressing). Good narration for the audiobook. For sure worth a read or listen if you love this genre, as I do.
May 28, 2026
Wow. Living in KCMO and working on the KS side, I was familiar with some of this, but I cannot believe how deep the pain runs in this community. I’m so proud to work with those trying to heal Wyandotte county
June 30, 2026
The book covers the shortfalls of the USA judicial system by centering on the wrongful conviction of a Kansas City black teenager. It exposes how politics, power and prejudice can corrupt people with the poor and minorities always paying the price.
February 12, 2026
So different from my usual reading norm but probably one of the most important reads I’ve ever read. Honestly such a compelling read that was worth sticking through
May 5, 2026
Not that I needed another reminder that our justice system is f#$@&3$. This book was interesting and infuriating.
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