Compiled from Staff Report – February 24, 2024

Many readers have inquired about our recent hiatus from publishing, and we’re grateful to be back. Before diving in, it’s essential to address the term ‘we.’ In a recent hearing at Currituck District Court regarding the no-contact order against Thom Roddy, founder of BlackwaterReports, by a county official and public office holder, the judge questioned the collective identity denoted by ‘we.’ For years, my leadership mantra has been, ‘There is no I in we.’ It’s a reminder that accomplishments are often the result of collaborative efforts, both professionally and personally. I advocate for acknowledging the contributions of everyone involved in BlackwaterReports.

I’m profoundly thankful for the unwavering support of my family, particularly during the demanding periods necessary for our reports. Their understanding and encouragement sustain me, especially when managing inquiries from various sources, contributors, and, most recently, legal representatives grappling with the First Amendment challenges confronting Thom Roddy and BlackwaterReports.

Several sources and contributors have expressed concerns about potential retaliation from Currituck County officials and requested anonymity. Recent events have only reinforced these apprehensions. As a non-representational attorney from the Reporters Committee on Freedom of the Press (RCFP) aptly stated, ‘Small governments often take unconstitutional positions because they assume the little guy can’t afford legal recourse.’ This underscores the vital roles of organizations like RCFP and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF). It’s important to note that neither organization represents Thom Roddy or BlackwaterReports as of the publication of this report.

We will delve into the details of yesterday’s hearing once all relevant attorneys have had the opportunity to review the audio. The hearing, conducted under oath, yielded a wealth of statements that may open doors for future litigation. At this juncture, the trajectory of our case remains uncertain. Due to concerns regarding the First Amendment and freedom of the press, we filed a report with the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, last week. Federal court proceedings are likely the appropriate path forward.

We extend our gratitude to the Currituck Clerk of Superior Court staff for their exceptional professionalism. Initially informed that the audio recording of the hearing would be available on Monday, we were pleasantly surprised when it was ready in less than two hours. Lastly, we express appreciation to the Currituck Sheriff’s Department. The deputies Roddy interacted with during the past week exhibited professionalism and diligence in carrying out their duties.