On Friday, the entire courtroom clapped when Humboldt Deputy Conflict Counsel RJ Leohner spoke about taking the day off to go stand with protestors

 

On Friday morning, Humboldt Deputy Conflict Counsel RJ Leohner appeared on the 8:30 calendar. He then spoke what some attorneys at the Courthouse, including Deputy DAs, described as a "moving speech" and a "beautiful speech" why he would not be available the rest of the day.

Mr. Leohner felt it was important for him to take the day off from work. I heard his colleagues, including Deputy Conflict Counsel David Nims talking about the preliminary hearings scheduled that day in his cases.

Most of the other media does not know the attorneys or staff at the Courthouse. A certain media outlet has repeatedly published targeted attacks from one individual against Deputy DA Roger Rees being out on Fridays in the past showing his support for Israel when hostages were being held by Hamas, which he has a right to do on his own time. I spoke with Mr. Leohner this morning and asked if he wished to comment. As I expected, he did not have anything to add.

These are challenging times for our country and in a small County, however there are some people more recognizable and identifiable. Most people do not even know who many local reporters are despite them being here for decades.

24 hours later, not only have legacy media not reported on the two agents who allegedly shot at Alex Pretti but the local media didn't report it either.

When it comes to taking risks and standing up for the First Amendment or any constitutional right, actions matter more than words. Those without resources and money and high priced lawyers; whether they are protestors or journalists are taking risks for the rights of others.