Prof. Jane Kirtley Interviewed by Wisconsin Examiner About “Investigations” Into Encrypted Chats Fueling Anti-ICE Protests

Professor Jane Kirtley, Silha Professor of Media Ethics and Law, was interviewed by the Wisconsin Examiner about “investigations” by administration officials into encrypted chats that are fueling anti-ICE protests in Minnesota. Calling these activities illegal, FBI Director Kash Patel said, “You cannot create a scenario that illegally entraps and puts law enforcement in harm’s way,” But First Amendment lawyers and national security experts have expressed skepticism that any charges against these chats will stick. Prof. Kirtley said, “As a general proposition, reporting on things you are observing and sharing those observations is absolutely legal.” She added that Patel’s statements have been too vague to support firm conclusions about what the FBI will actually investigate or what charges, if any, the United States Department of Justice would bring as a result.