Canberra has launched an official investigation into US police violence against an Australian news crew when a journalist and cameraman were attacked with tear gas among crowds near the White House. The incident was captured on live television.
The Australian Embassy in Washington, DC, has reached out to the US State Department after a reporter and cameraman for Australia’s Seven Network were beaten by police just outside the White House at Lafayette Park.
Australia’s 7News reporter Amelia Brace told her network that both she and her cameraman, Tim Myers, were left “pretty bruised, but okay” after their encounter with police in riot gear outside the White House on June 1.
Although a curfew has been imposed for the nation’s capital beginning at 11 p.m to prevent additional property destruction and looting, Brace pointed out that by law, the media is exempt from the measure. However, the incident happened nearly half an hour before the curfew went into effect on Monday, which was set at 7 p.m. that day.
“But tonight, it’s unclear to us if that’s changed,” Brace added. “The Secret Service outside our hotel is telling us we can’t leave the area.”
Australian Ambassador to the US Arthur Sinodinos said in a statement Tuesday that he was “aware of the treatment” inflicted on Brace and Myers by US police.
Sinodinos added that the embassy is providing consular support to the Australian citizens involved and will continue to check on their wellbeing.
“We take mistreatment of journalists seriously, as do all who take democracy seriously.”
The ambassador went on to say, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting journalists and guaranteeing equal justice under law for all.”
Sourse: sputniknews.com
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