Today, in Oakhurst, New Jersey, a Firefighter who is a fan of the low-brow Opie & Anthony XM Satellite radio show, followed their commandment to disrupt a live news cast, with potentially serious consequences.
The journalist, Anthony Johnson of WABC, Channel 7 in NY, was reporting on the snow storm that hit the area overnight. In addition to holding up the Opie & Anthony sign, as instructed by the radio shock-jocks, the Firefighter - who should know better - used an air-horn to blow into Mr. Johnson’s ear, causing hearing loss.
As the firefighter tried to escape the scene, his exit was blocked. Police were called in and the man was given a summons – but only for disorderly conduct – not assault.
This “prank” goes much too far when it causes harm to people who are simply doing their jobs. - K.B.
The office of the Acting Governor of New Jersey, Richard J. Codey, issued a statement in response to the incident: "Following an incident today where WABC New Jersey Reporter Anthony Johnson was harassed by a fan of a popular radio show that encourages fans to disrupt live broadcasts, Acting Governor Richard J. Codey issued the following statement."
Encouraging fans to intervene in live news shots is inappropriate and dangerous. Today a fan sounded an air horn in a reporter’s ear and this action may result in permanent hearing damage for the reporter who was harassed. Reporters are professionals who provide a great service to the public by delivering news. They should be treated with respect and not antagonized as part of a radio show gag. I won't tolerate anything less in our state. The person who committed this act should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I wish Mr. Johnson a speedy and healthy recovery.
Opie & Anthony are heard on XM Satellite Radio.
