Oakland Police Bar Student Journalist from Press Conference on Shooting

URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking incident, the Oakland Police Department (OPD) barred student journalist Nelzy Gonzalez-Zaragoza from attending a press conference today regarding the tragic death of beloved Laney College coach John Beam. Just a day after Beam was fatally shot on campus, the OPD enforced a controversial policy requiring press credentials that sparked outrage among journalists and First Amendment advocates.

Gonzalez-Zaragoza, an associate editor for the Peralta Citizen, arrived prepared to cover the November 14 event, but was blocked from entry due to not having a police-issued press credential. This marked a significant moment in the ongoing debate over press access in Oakland, particularly given the high-profile nature of the case.

The incident quickly garnered attention, prompting First Amendment organizations to send a letter to police officials and Mayor Barbara Lee. They criticized the OPD’s policy as detrimental to press freedom, stating it “interferes with the ability of the press to keep the public informed.”

Gonzalez-Zaragoza expressed her frustration, stating, “It’s not fair that any reporter was kicked out,” highlighting the chilling effect this incident could have on journalistic integrity in the community. She was not alone; journalists from other media outlets, including The Oaklandside and San Francisco Chronicle, faced similar restrictions, raising alarms about the OPD’s approach to media coverage.

Despite OPD’s assertion that the credentialing process is a safety measure, the letter from advocacy groups argues that there were “no security threats, space limitations, or other lawful justifications” for the exclusion. The letter calls for the immediate repeal of the policy, which contrasts sharply with practices at other local government events.

Assistant Chief James Beere, who was recently appointed as interim police chief, defended the policy, stating it is crucial for safety. He encouraged all media professionals to complete the credential application process to prevent such incidents in the future.

The backdrop of this conflict is particularly poignant. John Beam, a national icon known for his role in Netflix’s “Last Chance U,” was shot on campus just one day prior, leaving the community in mourning and seeking answers. Gonzalez-Zaragoza and her fellow reporters had been working diligently to provide updates and coverage in the wake of the tragedy, underscoring their commitment to journalistic integrity.

At the press conference, police confirmed that Beam was pronounced dead shortly before the event and identified the shooter as Cedric Irving Jr., aged 27, who is now in custody.

This incident raises critical questions about the role of police in regulating press access during significant community events. As the pushback against the OPD’s policies intensifies, the First Amendment Coalition and others continue to advocate for a more open and accessible environment for all journalists.

As the situation develops, attention turns to how the OPD will respond to the mounting criticism and whether this incident will lead to a reevaluation of their press access policies. Journalists and community members alike are watching closely, emphasizing the importance of a free and independent press in times of crisis.

Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.