Martha Bellisle is an award‑winning reporter for the Associated Press, known for her deep, methodical coverage of criminal justice, public safety, and high‑stakes legal cases across the United States. Over the course of her career, she has built a reputation for pairing investigative rigor with a human‑centered approach, often illuminating the lived realities behind court decisions, police actions, and systemic failures. Her reporting is grounded in meticulous document work, courtroom observation, and a commitment to clarity in complex stories.

Before joining the AP, Bellisle spent years in regional and national newsrooms, where she covered everything from federal trials to wildfire disasters and political unrest. She has reported from the field during some of the country’s most consequential events, bringing readers a blend of immediacy, accuracy, and contextual depth. Her work has been recognized for its precision and its ability to translate legal and institutional processes into narratives that resonate with a broad audience.

At the AP, Bellisle continues to shape national conversations through stories that probe accountability, examine the impact of policy, and give voice to individuals navigating the justice system. Whether she is unpacking a landmark ruling or following the aftermath of a major crime, her reporting reflects a steady dedication to public understanding and journalistic integrity.