CBS reporter fired for uncovering Hunter laptop scandal, network seizes all case files
OAN’s Brooke Mallory
5:27 PM – Friday, February 23, 2024
Before being let go from her job last week, the esteemed CBS reporter was one of the individuals credited with uncovering the Hunter Biden laptop story that left-leaning news outlets like Politico previously claimed was “Russian disinfo.”
According to insiders familiar with the situation who spoke with reporters on Thursday, the network took her personal files and computer in a “unprecedented” move.
Twenty CBS News employees were laid off as part of a bigger purge of hundreds of workers at parent firm Paramount Global, including Catherine Herridge, who is currently at the center of a First Amendment case that is being keenly followed by journalists across the country.
Although her dismissal had taken a few coworkers by surprise, insiders claim that many employees are frightened by the network’s choice to retain her personal documents and laptop, which may include even more sensitive information.
“It’s so extraordinary,” a source said, highlighting that the files — which are now property of CBS News — could easily contain confidential material.
According to the source, the network packed up everything she owned and had in the office, with the exception of Herridge’s scrap notes, and told her it would determine what, if anything, would be given back to her.
“They [typically] never seize documents [when you’re let go],” a second source who spoke to the press said. “They want to see what damaging documents she has.”
The network’s actions, according to insiders, might affect Herridge’s First Amendment lawsuit since her documents might reveal confidential talks she had with her attorneys or the identity of sources.
Herridge is facing criticism for allegedly defying U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper’s directive to disclose her source of information on a federal investigation regarding a Chinese American scientist running a graduate program in Virginia.
The reporter could face contempt of court in the near future for failing to reveal the source of an investigation that she highlighted in 2017, when she was employed at Fox News.
Herridge had run into obstacles from higher-ups regarding her coverage of Hunter Biden’s forgotten laptop. She had also had a falling out with Ingrid-Ciprian Matthews, the president of CBS News, a stern executive cleared of all charges in 2021 after there was an investigation into her hiring and management practices, specifically citing “discriminatory hiring practices and favoritism.”
According to the second source, there is a possibility that the network believes Herridge had material in her files that could result in a wrongful termination lawsuit.
“She was pursuing stories that were unwelcomed by the Biden White House and many Democratic powerhouses, including the Hur report on Joe Biden’s diminished mental capacity, the Biden corruption scandal and the Hunter Biden laptop,” said Jonathan Turley, a legal scholar and ex-CBS analyst.
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Why is it important for news organizations to respect the integrity and independence of their journalists and uphold the principles of press freedom
Ruption scandal, and more recently, the investigation into the Chinese American scientist,” the second source said. “The network wants to eliminate any possible evidence that could be used against them.”
These recent developments highlight the challenges faced by journalists in an era where media companies are increasingly consolidating and exerting control over their employees. The case of Catherine Herridge serves as a stark reminder of the potential repercussions for those who dare to challenge the narratives set forth by their employers.
Herridge’s dismissal raises concerns about the protection of journalists’ sources and the freedom of the press. The First Amendment lawsuit she is involved in has far-reaching implications for the rights of journalists to keep their sources confidential, as well as the public’s right to know.
It is essential that news organizations respect the integrity and independence of their journalists, as well as uphold the principles of press freedom. The decision to confiscate Herridge’s personal files and computer not only violates her privacy but also threatens the confidentiality of her sources and the ability to uncover stories of public interest.
Journalists play a crucial role in a democratic society by holding power to account and providing the public with reliable information. It is imperative that they are allowed to work without fear of retribution or interference from their employers.
In an age where misinformation and disinformation are rampant, it is more important than ever to support and protect journalists who strive to uncover the truth. The Hunter Biden laptop story, which was initially dismissed by mainstream media outlets, is a prime example of the need for diverse and independent voices within the media landscape.
The actions taken by CBS News in relation to Catherine Herridge’s personal files and computer are deeply concerning and undermine the principles of journalistic integrity and freedom of the press. It is incumbent upon media companies to ensure that they respect the rights of their employees and the important role they play in our democracy.
As the case unfolds, it is crucial for journalists, media organizations, and the public to closely monitor the proceedings. The outcome of Herridge’s First Amendment lawsuit will have far-reaching implications for the future of journalism and the ability of reporters to hold those in power accountable. The protection of journalists’ sources is essential for the functioning of a democratic society and the preservation of transparency and accountability.
It is our collective responsibility to defend and protect the freedom of the press. Without an independent, fearless, and robust media, democracy is at risk of erosion. The case of Catherine Herridge demonstrates the importance of upholding the principles of the First Amendment and safeguarding the rights of journalists to pursue the truth and inform the public.
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