Washington court lets Herridge contempt fine proceed
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The U.S. Supreme Court has declined an emergency appeal from journalist Catherine Herridge, allowing an $800-per-day civil contempt fine to stand while she continues refusing to identify a confidential source. Herridge, a former Fox News reporter, was held in contempt by a federal judge after declining to disclose who provided her with investigative materials used in 2017 stories about Chinese American scientist Yanping Chen. Chen had been investigated for years by the FBI over alleged ties to a Chinese military astronaut program but was never charged. In 2018, Chen sued the FBI and Justice Department, alleging illegal leaks under the Privacy Act.
More context
Timeline
- 2011 Chen investigated over immigration statements
- 2017 Herridge publishes Fox reports on Chen
- 2017 Articles allege ties to Chinese military
- 2018 Chen files Privacy Act lawsuit
- Recent months Federal judge holds Herridge contempt
- Recent months Court imposes $800 daily fine
- This week Supreme Court rejects emergency intervention
Why it matters
This case highlights the tension between press freedom and legal obligations. Journalists often rely on confidential sources to expose important stories. But, they can face legal consequences for protecting those sources. If you value investigative journalism, keep an eye on how this unfolds.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
