The operations manager for KGO-AM confirmed that the former Catholic priest and a well-known San Francisco radio talk show host Bernie Ward has been indicted on federal child pornography charges. Ward surrendered today to federal authorities. The specifics of the allegations against Ward remain under seal.
Ward, often called the Lion of the Left for his liberal views, hosts a nightly news talk program on KGO as well as a program called GodTalk on Sundays… He is also a frequent voice on various cable network news programs offering political commentary.
Ward’s lawyer tells KGO that the incidents in question are from more than four years ago and were a part of research for a book.
His lawyer says that as part of the research, Ward downloaded a few images of child pornography. “What the law looks at is did he knowingly possess child pornography, so the issue what was his intent when he obtained the images,” explained San Jose criminal defense attorney Steven Clark. “What did he do with the images?”
Ward appeared before a federal judge yesterday morning, pleading not guilty to charges of using the Internet to send and receive child pornography. “When all the facts are out on these charges, Bernie will be complete vindicated,” insisted his friend and business attorney, Jeannette Boudreaux. “I’m sure that he’ll respond in a very articulate matter.”
Clark questions the proposed defense. “Maybe like saying you know, I possessed heroin because I was writing a book about heroin. You’re not allowed to do it.”
Ward is due back in court in late January to receive a trial date. In the meantime, he has been pulled from the airwaves by KGO management. Substitute hosts will handle his weekday evening and Sunday morning programs.
