Journalist Arrested for Filming Protest; Faces Hate Charges

New York City journalist Samuel Seligson has been arrested on felony hate crime charges for documenting a pro-Palestinian protest that involved vandalizing the homes of Brooklyn Museum leaders. Seligson, a credentialed videographer, is accused of filming the protest but not participating in the vandalism. His attorney, Leena Widdi, claims the charges are an 'appalling' overreach and a violation of First Amendment rights. The incident involved activists spray-painting anti-Zionist messages and hurling red paint at the homes of museum officials, accusing them of complicity in actions against Gaza. Press freedom groups have condemned the arrest, arguing it raises serious concerns about the rights of journalists. Law enforcement maintains that Seligson was more involved than just filming, alleging he helped the vandals and did not wear his press credentials during the incident.