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NY Times Editor Under Review After Alleged Death Threats in Harvard Story Dispute

Ellen Pollock's remarks during a heated editorial meeting prompted an HR complaint from reporter Rob Copeland and raised concerns about workplace conduct.

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Overview

  • Rob Copeland filed a human resources complaint alleging that editor Ellen Pollock threatened to 'kill' him, another editor, and herself during a dispute over a Harvard article.
  • The conflict arose over the story's word count, which exceeded Pollock's 2,000-word limit by 282 words when published on April 22.
  • Pollock has since apologized, with sources suggesting her remarks were intended as humor, though Copeland did not perceive them that way.
  • The New York Times has affirmed its commitment to a supportive workplace and is conducting an internal review of the incident.
  • Copeland remains on assignment, declining a suggestion to take leave, as the case continues to spark discussions about newsroom culture and editorial pressures.