A former news director at KPBS in San Diego has filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination after reporting a potential Federal Communications Commission (FCC) violation involving profane language broadcast during a live news segment.
Terence Shepherd, who led KPBS’s news division for over four years before his dismissal in February, contends he was fired after raising concerns over an uncensored expletive displayed on air. The incident in question occurred in September 2025 during a live report by KPBS reporter Alexander Nguyen, who stood in front of a protest with a sign bearing the phrase “F— ICE” visible in the background.
According to Shepherd, he alerted his supervisor, Nancy Worlie, about the possible breach of FCC regulations, which prohibit the broadcast of obscene, indecent, or profane content. Shepherd also called for disciplinary action against Nguyen, including termination. The lawsuit, filed last month in San Diego County Superior Court, claims that Shepherd’s warnings were disregarded and that his subsequent firing amounted to retaliation prohibited under California Labor Code. This state law protects employees who disclose information that they reasonably believe indicates a violation of local, state, or federal laws or regulations.
The FCC defines profane language as “grossly offensive language that is considered a public nuisance,” and sanctions for violations can include warnings, fines, or revocation of broadcast licenses. However, the agency assesses such matters on a case-by-case basis.
Worlie declined to comment on Shepherd’s termination but told a local university newspaper that KPBS’s editorial standards remain unchanged following his departure. The public media station has yet to issue an official response to the lawsuit.
Shepherd is seeking monetary damages that would both compensate him and serve as a deterrent to the defendants. The lawsuit has sparked discussion on social media about journalistic ethics and editorial oversight when dealing with sensitive content during broadcasts.
Requests for comment from KPBS have not been returned.