Michael Roth, VP of AEG and Staples, attempts to stop photojournalist Ted Soqui from taking photos at an open press event. Roth put his hands and stood in front of Ted Soqui's camera, then grabbed his LAPD credentials and read his name aloud in an attempt to intimidate him. Wonder what would of happened if he aggressively grabbed and pulled on a TV journalist credential, or if Ted Soqui grabbed Roth's credential? Ted Soqui was the only photographer not permitted to photograph CA Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger standing and posing for the press in the middle of a solar panel field over 50 yards away. Several other photojournalist clicked away while Ted Soqui was stopped. All of the press, including Ted Soqui, were cleared and had to wear a bright orange band around their wrist. The Governor has his own body guards and CHP escorts. Last time we checked, Roth was not employed as a body guard or official escort for the state of California or Governor. Ted Soqui has photographed several US Presidents, Senators, Governors, Members of Congress, and hundreds of VIP's and has never had a press person stop him from doing his job.
Photos of Ted Soqui courtesy of Eric Leonard c 2008
Photo of Schwarzengger by Ted Soqui c 2008
