Staff Reports
In a shocking turn of events, a reporter and a photographer were robbed at gunpoint while covering the surge in armed robberies in Chicago. The daring heist occurred at around 5 a.m. when three masked men pulled up in a vehicle and brandished their firearms, demanding money from the crew. The criminals made off with a camera, equipment bags, and even the photographer’s backpack. Truly, nothing is safe from the clutches of Chicago’s lawlessness.
It is alarming to see how brazen these criminals have become. They have no respect for the hardworking journalists who bring us the news, and it is a testament to the deteriorating state of our society. This incident highlights the urgent need for increased security measures to protect our media professionals on the ground. It is simply unacceptable for them to risk their lives in pursuit of the truth.
Thankfully, some news stations affiliated with the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians Local 41 have recognized the gravity of the situation and are planning to hire security to accompany their camera crews. This is a step in the right direction, but it is clear that more needs to be done. The safety meeting organized by the union will give members an opportunity to voice their concerns and contribute to creating a comprehensive solution.
CHICAGO: A Camera Crew Was Robbed At Gunpoint While Reporting On Surge In Armed Robberieshttps://t.co/Jar5KyHoVd
— Sheri™ (@FFT1776) August 30, 2023
It is disheartening to note that this is not an isolated incident. Just a few weeks ago, another camera crew was robbed in Chicago while covering a news conference. It seems that even the presence of reporters and photographers does not deter criminals anymore. The city’s authorities must take decisive action to address this growing menace. The safety of our journalists should be a top priority.
In the words of Luis Godinez, the vice president of news at Univision Chicago, “Gratefully, the crew is safe.” However, we cannot let this incident slide without demanding justice. The criminals responsible for this outrageous act must be apprehended and brought to justice. No one should be above the law, especially those who seek to undermine the crucial work of our media. Chicago deserves better than this.
