Sign in Subscribe
By John Summers on

WBR Independent Appeals Ruling in Public Records Lawsuit

A judge has ruled in favor of the West Baton Rouge Parish Government and Fire Protection District No. 1 in an ongoing public records lawsuit. WBR Independent and its attorneys vigorously disagree and will be appealing to a higher court.

Announcements
WBR Independent Appeals Ruling in Public Records Lawsuit

I want to give you an update on the ongoing court case brought against me by the West Baton Rouge Parish Government and West Baton Rouge Fire Protection District No. 1. On May 20, 2026, we received the judge's ruling. It was decided entirely in the government's favor. My attorneys and I vigorously disagree with the ruling and will be appealing to a higher court.

Since this is an ongoing case, I am unable to comment on it in greater detail at this time. The Advocate, WBRZ, and the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press have covered this case fairly and accurately. I'll have more to say when the time is right. But my record with you speaks for itself. I have strived since day one to deliver unbiased facts and let you decide. That is not going to change. Thank you for your continued support.

— John Summers
Editor, WBR Independent

The Advocate:

Inside a legal fight: West Baton Rouge officials sue local journalist in public records dispute
The parish says it launched the lawsuit in response to threatened litigation from John Summers, the editor and main reporter for the West Baton Rouge Independent
The AdvocateAidan McCahill
Judge backs West Baton Rouge government in records fight, orders journalist to pay fees, legal costs
The May 13 judgment signed by 18th Judicial District Court Judge Melvin C. Zeno also requires John Summers, editor of the West Baton Rouge Independent, to pay the parish’s attorney fees.
The AdvocateAidan McCahill

Louisiana First News:

Editor plans to appeal decision on public records requests in West Baton Rouge
A judge ruled on whether the West Baton Rouge Government accessed public records in a reasonable fashion.
Louisiana First NewsMichael Scheidt

RCFP:

RCFP attorney defends Louisiana journalist sued by local government over public records requests
“This is a meritless attempt to deter reporting,” said RCFP’s Louisiana-based staff attorney, Virginia Hamrick.
The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the PressReporters Committee

WBRZ:

West Baton Rouge Parish sues local news outlet’s founder after public records request dispute
West Baton Rouge Parish sues local news outlet’s founder after public records request dispute
WBRZWBRZ Staff

Read next