Threats Against Journalists: A Chilling Assassination Plot Revealed in Quebec**

In an alarming revelation, convicted killer Frédérick Silva confessed to a plot for the assassination of La Presse journalist Daniel Renaud, offering a significant monetary reward in an apparent move to silence critical reporting on organized crime. Premier François Legault condemned this threat, emphasizing the need for protective measures for journalists.**

A significant and troubling development has arisen in Quebec, where a hitman confessed to offering C$100,000 (approximately $71,400) for the assassination of Daniel Renaud, a crime reporter for La Presse. This shocking admission came from Frédérick Silva, a convicted killer currently serving a life sentence after being found guilty of three murders and an attempted murder in 2022. While detailing his criminal past to police as part of a deal to become an informant, Silva admitted to attempting to contract out the murder of Renaud, who was covering his high-profile trial.

Quebec Premier François Legault publicly condemned the plot, remarking that it is unacceptable for a journalist to be placed under a contract for doing their job. "It makes no sense that in Quebec – we are not in a movie – there is a contract placed on the head of a journalist because he does his job," he stated. He also underscored the importance of law enforcement continuing to target organized crime effectively.

Reports indicate that during Silva’s confinement, he contacted known figures in organized crime to facilitate the assassination of Renaud. However, these figures were reportedly hesitant, expressing concerns that targeting a journalist was not a prudent course of action. Ultimately, while the contract was active for about two months, it was never executed; Silva claimed he terminated the order due to "more important issues" demanding his attention.

The news has left Renaud feeling shaken. He shared with La Presse that while he does not censor his work, he practices restraint to avoid jeopardizing lives, highlighting the fine line journalists often walk in reporting on dangerous subjects like organized crime. Vincent Marissal, a former colleague and current provincial politician, described Renaud as a diligent journalist who is not one to seek the spotlight, but one whose work evidently stirs significant reactions from those within the criminal underworld.

This incident raises significant questions regarding the safety and protection of journalists, especially those reporting on criminal activities. As the media continues to illuminate the complexities of organized crime, ensuring the safety of individuals risking their lives to uphold public interests becomes increasingly crucial.