Gun Map Publisher, Janet Hasson, Leaves the Journal News

The woman responsible for the publication of a controversial map of all gun permit holders in Rockland and Westchester counties resigned from the Journal News the last week of February, effective March 6.

The publication of the map created a national sensation in late 2012 and early 2013, mostly in opposition to the Journal News’ decision.

Locally, the map, published in the wake of the Newtown, Connecticut shootings, led to an outcry from thousands of law abiding citizens listed thereon and galvanized a strong opposition. Thousands of subscribers reportedly left the newspaper, most never to return. Law enforcement was particularly vocal in opposition to the map, as many cops and first responders’ addresses were listed.

Though it is unlikely Hasson was involved in the editorial decision to publish the map, she defended it for weeks, until finally taking it down following consecutive thefts of guns from houses on the map.

The Rockland County Times led coverage of the gun map controversy, gaining national and international exposure, particularly for the scoop that the Journal News had hired gun-toting guards to protect against blowback from the article, in spite of their anti-gun stance.

Hasson had been publisher of Lohud.com and The Journal News. She has left Gannett and moved on to GateHouse Media owned-Providence Journal in Rhode Island. The Journal News said George Troyano, former vice president sales/advertising for The Journal News Media Group, is now serving as interim publisher.

Coverage of the controversy remains available at: https://rocklandtimes.com/category/special-2/journal-news-controversy/