How Far Should You Go to Shield?

Reporters often have a special bond with their confidential sources, who provide information and evidence in exchange for anonymity. In many states that bond is protected by law, but there is no federal shield law in the United States. So, in theory, a federal judge can force a journalist to reveal the identity of their anonymous sources -- and if the journalist resists the subpoena, the judge can impose punishment.

In reality, that's exactly what happened to former USA Today reporter Toni Locy: back in February, a federal judge found her in contempt of court and threatened to fine her up to $5,000/day for refusing to reveal several sources. Locy joins us today to talk about identifying confidential sources. Mark Grannis, Hatfill's lawyer, will join us to talk about federal shield law, and justice and the press.* And we'll also talk to Matt Cooper, the Washington editor of Portfolio magazine, who was subpoenaed and threatened to eighteen months in prison during the Valerie Plame leak investigation.** We want to hear from reporters and prosecutors -- do you think that a source's anonymity should be protected? What about when the source turns out to be egregiously wrong?

* Counter to Grannis' remarks.
** Cooper ultimately testified in front of a grand jury when his confidential source, Karl Rove, granted him permission.

Ashley Grashaw

Tags: Mark Grannis | Matt Cooper | Toni Locy | confidential sources | federal shield law