Former LA Times Reporter Sues Over Retaliation by LA County Sheriff’s Department

May 28, 2025 – USA – 

Maya Lau, a former investigative reporter for the Los Angeles Times, has filed a federal lawsuit against Los Angeles County and its Sheriff’s Department, accusing them of unlawfully retaliating against her for reporting on alleged corruption within the department. The lawsuit, filed in early 2025, centers on Lau’s 2020 article that exposed misconduct among deputies in a controversial “Banditos” clique operating out of the East Los Angeles station.

According to Lau, her reporting, which brought national attention to a culture of impunity, violence, and secrecy within the sheriff’s department, triggered an unlawful leak investigation aimed at identifying her sources. The lawsuit claims the department and county officials violated her constitutional rights by using public resources to track her communications and harass those suspected of cooperating with her.

The complaint alleges that sheriff’s officials launched a “sham” criminal probe under the guise of an internal investigation. Lau contends that the real purpose was to intimidate whistleblowers and discourage further journalistic scrutiny. She argues that such actions not only undermined her ability to do her job but also violated legal protections for press freedom and the First Amendment.

Lau’s attorneys argue that the probe had a chilling effect on journalism and source protection, and they are seeking unspecified damages as well as a court declaration that the sheriff’s department’s actions were unconstitutional. The lawsuit also points to a broader pattern of retaliation and secrecy under former Sheriff Alex Villanueva, whose administration was repeatedly criticized for targeting journalists and suppressing dissent.

This case underscores the growing concern over press freedom in the United States, particularly when powerful law enforcement bodies are accused of weaponizing their authority against the media. First Amendment advocates have voiced strong support for Lau, warning that unchecked retaliation against reporters threatens the core of democratic accountability.

As the legal battle unfolds, Lau’s case could set a precedent for how courts handle alleged retaliation against journalists by public officials.

Reference – 

https://www.courthousenews.com/ex-la-times-reporter-sues-county-over-investigation-following-story-about-sheriffs-deputies/

Journalist Maya Lau sues former sheriff for his unlawful retaliation