SF Grand Jury Targets G8 Protest & Independent Journalist

Yet another Federal Grand Jury in San Francisco targeting local activists has been convened. This time the apparent reason for the Grand Jury is to investigate the anti-G8 solidarity protest held in the Mission District of San Francisco on July 8, 2005, during which a local police officer was injured. Charges against three people in connection with the protest are pending in San Francisco Superior Court. Independent journalist and videographer Josh Wolf, a frequent poster to Indybay, has been subpoenaed to testify and to provide any notes taken and the full and unedited videotape recorded during the demonstration. The National Lawyers Guild is representing Josh Wolf and has filed a motion to quash the subpoena on several grounds including First Amendment journalistic protections and that the FBI is on an illegal "fishing expedition" aimed at aiding the separate local investigation by San Francisco police and prosecutors. On March 30th, a press conference was held on the steps of the San Francisco Federal Building before the hearing on quashing the subpoena. A written decision on the motion will be delivered at a later date. Josh Wolf urges people "to talk to your friends and neighbors about how the grand jury system (is) a vicious unconstitutional implementation of the law that is being used for political purposes."

At least two of those arrested July 8th are set to return to court on the 13th of April at 8:30 AM in Department 20 of the SF Hall of justice on 850 Bryant street. They are asking people to save the date, come to the courthouse, and show solidarity.

Press Conference Video | Report | Photos

Josh Wolf's Grand Jury Documents

FBI Witchhunt.com Info on SF G8 Grand Jury