Filmmaker Gets Chile Reception

The Interpress News Agency (IPS) is reporting on the growing concern over a popular filmmaker who’s being held in a Chilean jail. Varela had been working on a documentary on the problems between lumber companies and the indigenous Mapuche people in Southern Chile.

Charged with “illicit association with the intent to commit a crime,” Varela was arrested May 7 for her alleged connections to a revolutionary group that is suspected of committing two robberies in 2004 and 2005. Though what’s most troubling is that much of her materials relating to the documentary were seized, including interviews, diaries, scripts, footage and cameras.

In an open letter to President Michelle Bachelet, Reporters Without Borders said “that other journalists and filmmakers have got into trouble when trying to cover the sensitive subject of the situation of the Mapuches.” 

Yes … its’ highly coincidental. And we’re sure those lumber companies don’t mind at all having her out of the way so they can continue to raze forests.

Article via IPS.

They Can Shoot Us, But We Can’t Shoot Them

Photo by discarted

It only took 17 years, but the LAPD is finally getting dashboard cameras installed in patrol cars. The issue was first suggested in the early 90s, and in an article in New American Media, Councilman Ed Reyes blamed the delay on the fact that it was a “low priority” for the previous administration. The first wave of cameras will be for about 300 cars in the South Bureau, which sees the highest rates of crime and violence.

There will be two different dashboard cams (one facing front, one facing the backseat) and the officers will wear wireless microphones. Data will be automatically uploaded and sent to a computer at the local station.

“From a patrol officer’s point of view, it’s a good thing,” said Officer Danny Hernandez.

From a suspect’s point of view, it’s also a good thing.

Article from New American Media.