The Central Intelligence Agency's use of journalists in information-gathering violates trust. Troy McCullough, Tim Davis, Jennifer Holland, Kathleen Carlson and Jenny Hykes. Members of the Central Intelligence Agency have apparently been posing as journalists and using media personnel to gather information for the past 19 years, despite the fact such acts were prohibited in 1977. Many organizations such as the Society of Professional Journalists and the ASNE have cried out in fiery protest.
Journalists are the watchdogs of our nation.
They are the eyes and ears of millions of people and the information is distributed around the world. Many journalists succeed in the difficult task of obtaining valid and respected sources based on trust. It is the trust factor in this issue that is undoubtedly abused when CIA officials pose as journalists or send in other media professionals to spy for our country. The secrecy of the CIA leaves us to wonder who its watchdog is. Copyright 1996 by the Iowa State Daily Publications Board.