The lawsuit, if successful, could have significant implications for Canadian journalists reporting in areas where police try to limit both public and media access. Bracken was on assignment at the time for the Narwhal, and editors with the environmental publication had previously notified police that Bracken was reporting in the area. But even though Bracken told police of the precedent, none appeared aware of the rights of media. A month later after her arrest, Coastal GasLink dropped the civil contempt charges against Bracken and Michael Toledano, a documentary film-maker who was also arrested. “While Coastal GasLink has ongoing concerns with respect to the fairness and approach of these individuals, we do not believe, in this situation, further civil court actions are merited,” TC Energy, who owns and operates Coastal GasLink, said in a statement at the time.
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