The New York Times has until Wednesday to provide a federal District Court with the names of its confidential sources for its stories written by Nicholas Kristof suggesting Steven J. Hatfill was the source of the anthrax attacks in the U.S.

The order was entered on the 20th of the month and has received surprisingly little coverage.

ORDER that Pltf's [83] Motion to Compel the Identity of Deft's Confidential Sources is GRANTED. Deft shall reveal the identity of Confidential Sources #2,#3 and #4, to Pltf no later than Wednesday, 10/25/06 (see Order for details). Signed by Judge Liam O'Grady on 10/20/06. Copies mailed: yes (Copies faxed by chambers) (pmil) (Entered: 10/23/2006)

As this is a civil case, if the paper refuses to comply and therefore cannot mount a full defense, the plaintiff can collect damages from them, as, for example, Wen Ho Lee did in another case.

Hat tip: Larwyn

Clarice Feldman   10 24 06