October 11, 2010, - 1:33 pm
NYTimes Cites Schlussel, Picks Up Wilcox “CHiPs” Undercover Informant Story
When I reported, early this morning, that it appeared former “CHiPs” star Larry Wilcox played real-life undercover informant for the feds as part of his plea deal, I meant to end with, “How long until the mainstream media picks up my exclusive reporting? 3-2-1- . . . .” (But since it was the middle of the night, I forgot that part.)
Well, it didn’t take long. Just an hour ago, the New York Times picked up my entire story, citing me. DebbieSchlussel.com . . . we do the reporting and legwork that some Americans–mainstream media reporters–won’t do:
Larry Wilcox, who became famous for his role as Officer Jon Baker on the hit television series “CHiPs” decades ago, may have recently reprised his role of working in the world of law enforcement. . . .
[W]hat federal prosecutors did not say was that in regard to the criminal charges against him, Mr. Wilcox, 63, pleaded guilty months ago – and agreed to go undercover to assist federal law enforcement officials with their investigation.
On July 2, according to a court filing made public last week, Mr. Wilcox pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit security fraud, for which he now faces up to five years in prison.
But even more interestingly, as part of that plea agreement, Mr. Wilcox agreed that – if asked by prosecutors – he would work “in an undercover role to contact and negotiate with other individuals under the supervision of, and in compliance with, law enforcement officers and agents.” (While Mr. Wilcox’s plea was reported last week, that passage was pointed out Monday by Debbie Schlussel, a conservative blogger and lawyer.)
The Times even lifted the plea agreement I posted here and proceeded to post it on Scribd. (No worries, NYT, I won’t ask you to repay me the $1.20 I spent to get the document.) I can’t complain, though, since the NYTimes did the right thing–unlike many in the mainstream conservative media–and gave me proper credit for my scoop. And I appreciate that, so thanks to reporter Thomas Kaplan. And it’s not the first time, either. It’s the latest of many. The New York Times almost always cites me when they use my scoops and/or ideas. Earlier this year, I was cited by the New York Times with approval for my commentary on the movie with “Dinner For Schmucks,” and the proper usage of the latter word. And unlike Sean Vannity, Hanan Tudor, and other such ganifs who flat-out ripped me off, the Times also quoted me for breaking the story about the University of Michigan-Dearborn Muslim footbaths.
Read it here first. Or read it in the New York Times, later.
Tags: "Exclusive", actor, chips, confidential informant, FBI, Federal court, feds, guilty plea, Informant, July, Larry Wilcox, New York Times, Officer Jon Baker, Officer Jonathon "Jon" Baker, one count, plea agreement, pleaded guilty, pled guilty, Ponch & Jon, securities fraud, sentence, sentencing, sentencing guidelines, Southern District of Florida, undercover, undercover informant
Congrats!
Mark on October 11, 2010 at 4:21 pm