Press Release

Ballard Spahr Wins Protection for Denver Journalist

March 18, 2020

When a trio of extremists tried to intimidate KUSA-TV/9News investigative reporter Jeremy Jojola—going so far as to threaten his safety on social media and take a selfie in front of his home when his wife and newborn daughter were inside—the television station turned to Ballard Spahr for help.

Working with Litigation Senior Counsel Steven D. Zansberg, Litigation Associate Christopher E. Byer persuaded a Denver County judge to issue three permanent civil protection orders against the men, who self-identified as members of “Defend Denver,” an extremist group that has propagated anti-Semitic and anti-LGBTQ ideology. The three men now must stay 100 feet away from Mr. Jojola, Mr. Jojola’s home, and KUSA-TV/9News headquarters in the Speer neighborhood. They also are not permitted to own firearms.

“Journalists deserve the freedom to do their jobs without facing harassment or intimidation,” Mr. Zansberg said. “Chris’ win is one step of many we’re happy to take on behalf of the news organizations we’re privileged to represent.”

Ballard Spahr’s Media & Entertainment Law Group was named 2020 Law Firm of the Year in the Litigation—First Amendment by U.S. News & World Report-Best Lawyers. The attorneys in the group help clients across platforms and industries navigate some of the law’s most challenging issues, during the editing process and in court. Across the country, Media & Entertainment attorneys work to safeguard a free and independent press. Mr. Zansberg, for example, serves as the President of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, which educates about and promotes greater transparency in state and local governments.

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