Journalist Katherine Herridge shared an “important update” late Thursday on the shocking news that CBS News allegedly retained her confidential files and records even after her employment was terminated.
Herridge emphasized that the latest information is a statement from her union, SAG-AFTRA, that supports claims first published by law professor Jonathan Turley.
Turley reported that when delivering the pink slip to Herridge last week, “CBS officials took the unusual step of seizing her files, computers, and records containing information about privileged sources.”
“The network obtained Ms. Herridge’s notes and files and told her that they would decide what would be turned over to her,” he explained. “The files likely contain confidential material from her time at both Fox and CBS. Those records suggest they are likely the property of CBS News.”
new york post later confirmed This is Mr. Tarly’s report.
In a statement, SAG-AFTRA condemned CBS News’ actions and explained why they “set a dangerous precedent for all media professionals and threaten the very foundations of the First Amendment.”
statement Said:
It is completely inappropriate for an employer to fire a reporter and take the highly unusual step of preserving and searching the reporter’s file, which contains information and identification of confidential sources. From a First Amendment perspective, it is shocking and ridiculous for a media company committed to journalism to refer to a reporter’s investigation or confidential source reporting as “classified information.”
The retention of media professionals’ reporting materials by their former employers is a significant break from traditional practice, which favors the immediate return of reporting materials.
SAF-AFTRA said CBS News officials recently contacted the union to discuss the issue. However, it is not clear whether Mr. Turley’s report triggered this communication.
In a statement to Blaze Media, a CBS News spokesperson appeared to acknowledge that when Herridge was fired, he was locked out of the office where confidential files and records were kept.
“The Duchess of Cambridge’s personal belongings were delivered to her home a week ago and we are ready to pack the remaining files on her behalf immediately. A representative will also be present if she wishes.” a spokesperson said. “We are awaiting a response from Duchess Kate and/or her representatives.
“We respected her request not to view her files and, due to concerns about confidential sources, the office she was using has remained secure since her departure,” the spokesperson insisted.
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