The Glenview Police Department in Illinois dispatched Detective Kevin Conroy to the home of an undercover OMG journalist, following the release of a hidden camera investigation into now-former State Farm executive Haden Kirkpatrick. The officer cited an alleged violation of Illinois’ ‘eavesdropping statute,’ also known as 720 ILCS 5/14-1, and indicated the journalist could face a low-level felony charge.
In the hidden camera footage, Kirkpatrick criticized California wildfire victims: “People want to build in areas… for their ego. But it’s also a f***ing desert,” and confirmed State Farm’s calculated exit from the state’s insurance market, citing a potential $5 billion shortfall: “We’re overexposed here… so we’re going to cancel these policies.” He also acknowledged bias in hiring, stating he instructed HR to “find me the demographic profile of America in 2040,” which ultimately led to his termination and prompted his complaint to authorities.
Detective Conroy, who has reportedly never charged this statute before, is expected to explain its application to the state’s attorney. Glenview Police attempted to bring the journalist in for questioning, raising serious First Amendment concerns.
This is a retaliatory act against constitutionally protected journalism and a threat to press freedom. The journalist has declined to submit a statement, and OMG is preparing a legal response while requesting answers from the Glenview Police Department.
ATTENTION DEFENSE ATTORNEYS IN COOK COUNTY, IL, or those able to work with local counsel, we are seeking legal support for our OMG Journalist.
If you are committed to defending press freedom, and would like to help support our mission, please contact us at: [email protected]
