Crime & Safety

The Argument Against the Motion to Compel a Patch Editor to Reveal His Source

The court filing that explains Patch's belief that reporter's privilege applies to Joseph Hosey's reporting in the Hickory Street Murder Case.

On July 19, attorney Ken Schmetterer filed a memorandum outlining Patch Media's objection to a defense attorney's motion to compel Patch editor Joseph Hosey to reveal the confidential source who turned over to him police reports that described details of the Hickory Street murders in Joliet.

On Aug. 14, a supplemental memorandum with additional documentation was filed on Hosey's behalf.

On Aug. 30, Judge Gerald Kinney ruled in favor of defense attorney Chuck Bretz, who represents one of the accused killers, and ordered Hosey to turn over the police reports within 21 days. If the source of the reports cannot be confirmed through the documents, Hosey would be required to reveal his source to the court.

On Sept. 3, Schmetterer told the judge that Patch Media would refuse to comply with the order. 

"We respectfully disagree with the judge's decision. We believe that reporter shield laws apply in this case and intend to appeal the matter," said Doug Serton, director of communications for Aol, Patch's parent company.

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