In her own words: Ashli Ford explains why she's an expert

Proof not needed to launch criminal allegations, she says. All police need is her word

MILAN — Ashli Ford told then Norwalk police Chief David Smith in 2023 that her credentials as an investigator, a journalist and a victims advocate was all he needed to order investigations of the far-reaching criminal allegations she was making against city officials, police, prosecutors and others.

Her word was good enough, she told Smith, who attempted to explain to her that a standard of proof is needed before investigations get launched.

“You can investigate him based on a statement made by somebody who is labeled an expert witness in every county except for this one,” she told the chief. “That’s my statement. I’m telling you I am an investigator for these things. I do this as investigative journalism. I have a very valid reputation.”