Independent Journalist’s Charges Dropped
Independent journalist Nick Soto achieved a win on October 2 when disorderly conduct charges against him were dropped, following his coverage of the attacks on ice agents and facilities in Portland, Oregon. Interestingly, the District Attorney announced intentions to file charges against two men allegedly involved in an assault outside the ice facility.
District Attorney Nathan Vasquez stated on Monday that his office would no longer pursue the disorderly conduct charges against the players involved in the incident.
Moreover, two other individuals arrested during the event have now been charged with disorderly conduct and will face legal consequences.
In a press release, Vázquez emphasized, “Freedom of speech does not include the freedom to commit crimes. Regardless of whether individuals express ideologies from the left, right, or center, what matters is if there’s evidence that a crime occurred.”
Soto welcomed the DA’s decision, though he noted that this was just the start. “Trust me,” he commented on social media. “This is only the beginning.”
An attorney representing the players sent a letter to the Chief of the Portland Police Bureau, Bob Day, alleging that Soto was specifically targeted by higher-ranking officers rather than the regular officers present during the incident.
D. Angus Lee, a lawyer from Vancouver, Washington, pointed out that this incident reflects a broader pattern of the Portland Police Bureau trying to suppress conservative media and political activity.
Lee called for the police department to issue a formal apology within a week and to initiate an internal investigation regarding the players’ arrest, emphasizing the need for the investigation to include supervisory staff.
He concluded by expressing hope that the department would take corrective actions, showcasing a commitment to constitutional policing, safeguarding free expression, and ensuring accountability within their ranks.
