Charges Dropped Against Photojournalist Daniel Smith in Florida

Case highlights press freedom protections for journalists covering protests

Florida authorities have dismissed all criminal charges against freelance photojournalist Daniel Smith, ending a legal case that raised serious concerns among press freedom and civil liberties groups. Smith was arrested on September 5, 2025, while covering a protest near the Hillsborough County Courthouse in Tampa, where he was livestreaming and photographing demonstrators. Police charged him with offences including resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, alleging he failed to comply with instructions, despite Smith repeatedly identifying himself as a journalist.

The case drew swift criticism from press freedom advocates, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, who argued that Smith was clearly engaged in lawful newsgathering protected under the First Amendment and Florida law. Advocacy groups warned that prosecuting journalists for covering protests risks chilling media coverage of public demonstrations.

On December 22, 2025, prosecutors formally dropped all charges, stating the case would not proceed. The decision was welcomed by Smith’s legal team and media organisations, who said it reaffirmed the principle that journalists should not face criminal penalties for carrying out their professional duties.

To read the full story: https://tjcproject.org/florida-drops-charges-against-photojournalist-after-advocacy-campaign/