Congress arrests filmmaker

AN Oscar-nominated filmmaker has been arrested at the US Congress building after trying to film without required media credentials.

Josh Fox

AN Oscar-nominated filmmaker has been arrested at the US Congress building after trying to film without required media credentials.

Joshua Fox was led off in handcuffs and charged with unlawful entry. He was released later with a misdemeanour citation for, in his words, "practising journalism", The New York Times reported. A court date was set for February 15.

Fox directed the anti-drilling documentary Gasland, which was nominated last year for an Oscar. Fox also is an activist who has spoken out against hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, the subject of the House Science, Space and Technology subcommittee hearing.

The oil and gas industry has criticised Fox's film for what they say is a sensationalised attack.

"The individual removed was not accredited by the House Radio and TV Gallery and had refused to turn off his camera upon request by Capitol Police," a statement from committee Republicans said.

The hearing was available for viewing on the committee's internet site.

AP