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Lee settles suit against govt, media

Dr. Wen Ho Lee has settled his suit against the government and five media outlets for a total of $1.6 million. He was the scientist arrested on charges of spying for China, held for nine months, and then allowed to plead to a minor charge. His suit alleged that the government had smeared him with false "leaks" to the press (and, I gather, that the press had happily reported them all).

The settlement was for just under $900K from the government, and $750K from AP, ABC, NY Times, LA Times, and Washington Post. Needless to say, the latter group is complaining and saying it proves the need for federal laws to shield reporters.

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