Federal Judge James S. Moody today dismissed a motion by the Tampa Tribune to have access to about a dozen sealed documents in the case that formerly involved Sami Al-Arian. The documents deal with the sole remaining defendant, Hatem Fariz. Moody said unsealing the documents would prejudice Fariz's ability to get a fair trial.

BTW, you notice who is doing all the suing on behalf of the public's right to know these days? The wealthier St. Petersburg Times with its nobler oblige? Nope, it's the lil' old Tribune. Tampa's daily filed another public records lawsuit this week to get a copy of the city of Tampa's bid for the 2008 Republican National Convention from the convention and visitors bureau. You go, Janet Weaver!

This article appears in May 31 – Jun 6, 2006.