Records reveal reporter's criminal past

Joshua Benton of The Dallas Morning News used court records to show that Elizabeth Albanese, who recently stepped down as leader of the Press Club of Dallas, has a criminal record under the name Lisa Albanese centered on allegations of theft. Former co-workers described a history of spinning lies. She also has a record of mental illness and delusional behavior. " The investigation revealed that Ms. Albanese invented medical conditions, a kidney transplant and at least one college degree. According to the records, she was also jailed for felony thefts, forgery and putting false documents into circulation." The Press Club currently is investigating the validity of judging in the group's Katie Awards, one of the state's most prestigious journalism honors, under her leadership.