Bob Collins
In the picture, pick out the journalists. You can click on the image to make it larger.
Even in the relative calm when this picture was shot, it’s difficult to determine who is a journalist, who is a protester with a camera and who is actually a protester but is saying he/she is a journalist.
Add a little action into the mix, and smaller credentials aren’t much help.
A news release from the people in charge of the police today appears to suggest that the police aren’t going to waste much time this week trying to determine who’s a real journalist, and who are the posers.
Law enforcement responsible for security and public safety in the Twin Cities area would like to remind members of the media of the proper procedures for staying safe during unlawful assemblies. When police officials request the breakup of an unlawful assembly by announcement to the gathered crowd, that order applies to all individuals, including the media. A quick and orderly dispersal is more likely to help people, including media personnel, stay safe and avoid arrest.
Because still cameras, video cameras and other recording equipment are commonplace at large events or gatherings, it can be difficult for law enforcement and others to differentiate between credentialed media, un-credentialed media or others who may carry similar equipment. While law enforcement in no way wishes to restrict First Amendment rights, members of the press must also follow police orders to protect their safety, the safety of police and others.
(Photo via Getty)
