I was deeply saddened by the death of retired Los Angeles Times Bureau Chief Jack Nelson last week. He played a vital part in The Fresno “Bee Four” case as an expert witness. (Recall that in this case some years ago four Fresno Bee journalist were jailed for failing to reveal their news sources.) Jack’s lucid testimony about the need to protect one’s sources to protect the public interest was a huge contributing factor to the release of these four principled journalists by the late Judge Hollis Best in Fresno Superior Court.
Jack was always in the forefront of movements to protect the press and its representatives. As a frequent guest on “Washington Week in Review” his clear comments and warmth were known to and appreciated by much of America. As a special friend to those who support press freedom, Jack will be missed.
Phil Fullerton
Lead counsel to the “Bee Four”
Fresno
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