Charges dropped against Oregon journalist


Courtesy Joseph Rushmore
Too often, police arrest journalists for doing their jobs. These arrests and prosecutions chill important reporting.
Arrests and prosecutions of journalists often violate the First Amendment, and they undermine the public’s right to learn about newsworthy events.
Data from the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker shows that journalists are at heightened risk of arrest while covering protests. But police have also arrested reporters just for gathering news or asking questions. Journalists should never be arrested for doing their jobs.

Recent arrest of respected photojournalist was just one of many recent abuses

Conviction undermines the First Amendment right to gather news on public land

Search warrant and park bans show officials’ unusual hostility to free speech as June 12 trial approaches

Prosecution is unconstitutional and against the interests of justice

Judge questions whether reporters were journalists and ignores evidence of retaliation

For journalists, legal support numbers are a necessity, not a crime

Footage of arrests released following FPF court petition

Asheville journalists set for trial but footage remains hidden from public

Report shows 14 journalists arrested for doing their jobs in 2022.

Latest prosecution for routine newsgathering follows a wave of unconstitutional charges against local journalists.