CPJ, others decry criminal charges against Texas photojournalist Carlos Sanchez

The Committee to Protect Journalists joined more than 40 journalism and civil society organizations in urging Texas authorities to decline prosecution of the criminal charges levied against FOX 7 Austin photojournalist Carlos Sanchez.

Law enforcement officers arrested Sanchez while he was covering a pro-Palestinian protest on the University of Texas at Austin campus on April 24, 2024.

The charges Sanchez faces — impeding a public servant and assault — exert a chilling effect on journalists covering protests. “Journalists must not be punished or retaliated against for carrying out their constitutionally protected role of reporting the news,” the statement said.

Read the full statement here: