"1st Amendment Fight: Kansas Police Raid Newsroom, Sparking Press Freedom Concerns"
A small newspaper in Kansas is facing a First Amendment battle after its office and the home of its owner and publisher were raided by the Marion Police Department. The police confiscated computers and cellphones, sparking condemnation from press freedom watchdogs and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. The raids were prompted by allegations that the newspaper illegally obtained and used personal information about a local business owner. While some residents accuse the newspaper of aggressive coverage that has driven out businesses, the newspaper's attorney argues that the police department's actions violate constitutional protections for the free press. The Society of Professional Journalists has pledged $20,000 towards the newspaper's legal defense. Both the newspaper and the business owner are considering lawsuits.