Story perspectives

Justice Dept Stops FBI Stalking Probe of Reporter

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Justice Department halted the FBI stalking inquiry into Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson, deeming it retaliatory.
The FBI opened a probe after Williamson’s article on FBI Director Kash Patel’s protection of girlfriend Alexis Wilkins, then closed it.
Kash Patel denied ordering the probe, called the story baseless, and said girlfriend faced threats.
Joe Kahn said the probe violated Elizabeth Williamson’s First Amendment rights, prompting Reporters Without Borders to label it harassment.

History

Historical Context

The 1971 Supreme Court case New York Times Co. v. United States, known as the Pentagon Papers case, affirmed the press's right to publish classified information, rejecting government claims of prior restraint. This landmark ruling reinforced First Amendment protections and has ongoing implications for press freedom, as seen in the recent cessation of the FBI's inquiry into journalist Elizabeth Williamson, raising concerns about government retaliation against the media.

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Story summary

Justice Department halted the FBI stalking inquiry into Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson, deeming it retaliatory.
The FBI opened a probe after Williamson’s article on FBI Director Kash Patel’s protection of girlfriend Alexis Wilkins, then closed it.
Kash Patel denied ordering the probe, called the story baseless, and said girlfriend faced threats.
Joe Kahn said the probe violated Elizabeth Williamson’s First Amendment rights, prompting Reporters Without Borders to label it harassment.

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