Stanford Student Journalist Dilan Gohill Cleared of Charges After Arrest at Protest

March 07, 2025 – USA – 

Stanford University student journalist Dilan Gohill has been cleared of all charges following his arrest during a pro-Palestinian protest at the university in June 2024. The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office announced on March 6, 2025, that it would not pursue felony charges against Gohill, who had been detained while covering a sit-in at the university president’s office. The decision came after a nine-month investigation and widespread criticism from press freedom organizations.

Gohill, a freshman reporter for The Stanford Daily, was arrested along with 12 protesters who had occupied Building 10 on campus. He was charged with felony burglary, vandalism, and conspiracy. Despite being identified as the press by both protesters and his editors, Gohill was detained for 15 hours and faced the possibility of significant legal consequences.

The District Attorney’s Office stated that there was no evidence Gohill had engaged in criminal activity beyond his role as a journalist. District Attorney Jeff Rosen emphasized the importance of a free press and acknowledged that the law provides reporters with latitude to perform their duties. The decision has been welcomed by press freedom advocates, who had previously urged the DA to drop the charges, citing concerns over the protection of student journalists.

While the DA’s office has declined to charge Gohill, it is still reviewing the conduct of the 12 protesters involved in the incident. The protesters face felony charges of vandalism and conspiracy related to the break-in, which caused significant damage to the building.

Gohill expressed relief at the decision, stating that he felt he could “finally breathe” after the prolonged uncertainty. He emphasized that no journalist should have to endure such a threat to their future for simply doing their job.

This case highlights the delicate balance between press freedom and legal boundaries during protests. It underscores the need for clear protections for journalists covering demonstrations to ensure they can report without fear of legal repercussions.

Reference – 

DA declines charges against arrested Stanford reporter

https://www.cjr.org/news/dilan-gohill-stanford-daily-protests-prosecutors.php

DA Drops Charges against Stanford Journalist Arrested at Protest, Raising Press Freedom Concerns