Hamilton Spectator challenges contempt conviction

The Hamilton Spectator reported this week that it is appealing a conviction for contempt of court after one of its reporters refused to reveal a confidential source. Ken Peters was found in contempt of court in 2004 after he would not diclose the identity of a person who gave him confidential documents for a story. The conviction is being challenged by media lawyer Brian Rogers at the Ontario Court of Appeal. Rogers says the case revolves around the central issue of reporters being able to protect people who provide important information in the public interest.