The FBI’s request for raw footage from the documentary “Men of War” has set off a battle over journalistic rights. The film, which chronicles the story of Jordan Goudreau and a failed coup in Venezuela, is at the center of the controversy.
Filmmaker Jen Gatien, who spent years creating the documentary, says the FBI’s demand is an overreach. “They are trying to get 100 hours of interviews and other footage, but this is protected under journalistic privilege,” she said.
MEN OF WAR, directed by Jen Gatien & Billy Corben.
This gripping documentary dives into the failed 2020 Venezuela coup led by ex-Green Beret Jordan Goudreau. Watch it at #DXIFF, Nov 7-10 in D.C. https://t.co/M46IL8jnCq pic.twitter.com/hiOciN75cW
— Double Exposure Investigative Film Festival & Symp (@DX_IFF) October 15, 2024
Goudreau, a former Green Beret with a distinguished service record, faces charges of violating the Arms Export Control Act. Prosecutors claim he illegally sent weapons abroad to aid in the coup. Goudreau denies the accusations.
The documentary provides an inside look at Goudreau’s efforts to overthrow Nicolás Maduro. Gatien argues that complying with the FBI would compromise her work. “I didn’t make this film to help the government build its case,” she said.
This is the alleged $212 million contract Juan Guaido signed with US mercenary Jordan Goudreau to execute a military coup against Venezuela’s elected govt. Goudreau has said the funding came from VZLA exiles in the US, but complained he wasn’t paid. https://t.co/0TN65mHXdE pic.twitter.com/NAFPGF0wPA
— Max Blumenthal (@MaxBlumenthal) May 4, 2020
In Venezuelan custody, ex-Green Beret and Silvercorp mercenary Luke Denman confirms contract with Juan Guaido, says plan was to kidnap Venezuelan Pres. Maduro and fly him to the US as a captive #BayOfPiglets pic.twitter.com/hg46mbBfRz
— Max Blumenthal (@MaxBlumenthal) May 6, 2020
Experts have weighed in on the dispute. “Forcing a journalist to provide evidence undermines the First Amendment,” said lawyer Mark Rasch.
Gatien remains committed to protecting her footage. “This is a critical moment for press freedom,” she said. “I will not back down.”
