zlacker

> Depending on details, it may not be an unreasonable request.

No. Under no circumstances is it acceptable for governments to ID readers of a news article. Such an act is a direct attack on the freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and freedom of the press. IMO it very clearly crosses a line on what law enforcement can and cannot do in a democratic society.

Note that law enforcement has (over)broad powers for investigation at their disposal already, and they were able to find the suspect "through other means." There was no justification whatsoever for the subpoena.

>>sorami+(OP)
It seems no different to me than subpoenaing say, a private clubs membership records.

The danger comes when law enforcement uses the evidence they gather from one case, to target someone who hasn’t committed a crime. Which clearly hasn’t been shown to be done here.

>>george+Nd
By the time is is shown to be done you have already lost your freedoms.

Media, news and journalists and their sources have special protections and consideration that random private club does not.

>>george+Nd
Equally bad. Freedom of association is also an enumerated right. Without demonstrable cause, none of the government’s business. Yes, I’ve been protected from such harassment thanks to that right.