In a startling turn of events, Blaze News investigative journalist Steve Baker was apprehended by federal authorities on Friday, facing charges related to his coverage of the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
The Biden Administration’s actions in this case are raising concerns about press freedom, challenging the belief that America stands apart from nations known for suppressing dissent.
Baker is charged with four non-violent misdemeanors, including knowingly entering a restricted building, disorderly conduct, and parading in a Capitol Building. The charges stem from his reporting on the highly contentious events of January 6, an issue clouded by the limited release of information and thousands of hours of unreleased footage.
- 18 U.S.C. § 1752(a)(1) – Knowingly Entering or Remaining in any Restricted Building or Grounds
Without Lawful Authority, - 18 U.S.C. § 1752(a)(2) -Disorderly and Disruptive Conduct in a Restricted Building or Grounds,
- 40 U.S.C. § 5104(e)(2)(D)-Disorderly Conduct in a Capitol Building;,
- 40 U.S.C. § 5104(e)(2)(G) -Parading, Demonstrating, or Picketing in a Capitol Building.
The journalist’s coverage uncovered potential perjury by a U.S. Capitol Police officer, adding a layer of complexity to the already polarized narrative surrounding the Capitol riot.
Baker’s lawyer, William Shipley, asserts that his client has been targeted due to his persistent probing of the federal government over the past three years.
Baker’s reporting highlighted inconsistencies in the testimony of Capitol Police Special Agent David Lazarus during the trial of Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes and member Kelly Meggs.
The journalist’s analysis of CCTV footage suggests a conflicting account of events presented to the jury by Lazarus, leading to questions about the DOJ and FBI’s role in crafting a version of events that may not align with reality.
This arrest raises broader concerns about the freedom of independent journalists who challenge mainstream narratives and question possible misconduct by the federal government.
The incident underscores the delicate balance between national security concerns and the preservation of journalistic integrity, prompting a renewed debate on press freedom in the United States.
