The Press at Protests

I’m quoted in an article about legal action being taken against the Los Angeles Police Department and LA County Sheriff by a group of reporters injured by law enforcement during recent protests in LA. Sometimes reporters are injured inadvertently at protests, as they cover unfolding events. However, during the Black Lives Matter demonstrations, in LA, and at some “No Kings” demonstrations, reporters allege that they were targeted by law enforcement even though they were wearing visible credentials. Some video evidence supports that claim, as officers can be seen pointing “less lethal” weaponry at reporters.

The First Amendment protects a right to gather and obtain information, including by recording what is happening at public protests. The press and citizens alike enjoy that right. After reporters were attacked during the BLM protests, California enacted a law that prohibits law enforcement from harassing or interfering with the press - unless reporters are obstructing law enforcement operations. Notwithstanding that law, journalists allege they were subject to aggressive law enforcement actions while attempting to report on demonstrations.

It is vitally important that the press be free to report not only on the demonstrations but on how they are being policed. At the very least, reporters should not be targeted by law enforcement for simply doing their jobs.