L.A. District Attorney drops 'obstruction' charges against NPR/KPCC journalist

KPCC journalist Josie Huang

Charges against a KPCC journalist were dropped because of "insufficient evidence," said the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.

Josie Huang was recording the arrest of protestors on Sept. 12 when she was tackled to the ground, handcuffed and arrested by L.A. County deputies in Lynwood, CA. despite her telling identifying herself as a reporter for KPCC, an NPR-affiliate. She also had her journalist's I.D. on a lanyard around her neck.

"I am gratified that the district attorney’s office has reviewed the evidence, including my video recordings of law enforcement activity, and reached the conclusion that it did," Huang said in a statement, adding that she is seeking a finding of “factual innocence” in an effort to "wipe this unlawful arrest from my record."

The entire incident was recorded by Huang's smart phone and a crew from another news station.

The conclusion of the D.A.'s office said that Huang was ordered to back off but was not given time to comply before she was tackled.

The D.A.'s office also said the mere photographing of officers who are in a public space is not a violation of the law, nor interfering with them performing their duties. 

Huang's arrest brought an outcry of protests from journalists' organization.

"More than ever, I am grateful for the First Amendment, which entitles all Americans — not just journalists — to the rights of free speech and assembly," Huang said.