The story isn't clear on whether Sprint was given reasonable evidence that, yes, it really was the police requesting the information. If not, then their refusal was quite proper -- do you want your cell phone company to give out your location to any joker who calls them and spins a tale of dire emergency?
The article is so unclear on what actually happened, no judgement can be made either way. That won't stop people, though.
The cell phone companies have procedures in place to protect your account and/or your safety. Passwords, keywords, etc. When I was carjacked I tried to get NEXTEL to locate my phone that was in my truck at the time in hopes that I could get the information to our Sheriff's Dept.
They REFUSED me, the owner of the phone, account, and truck the chance to catch the POS who put a gun to my face. They gave the same story this operator is giving. No warrant, No information. When I asked them to separate any calls made from my phone from the date/time of the carjacking, from my calls they refused that as well.
I told them that was unacceptable and have since switched services. If you have purchased the phone and are paying the bill you have the right to get YOUR information. The cell phone companies don't give a RAT'S A** about you or your loved ones, just keep sending the damn money. If we didn't need them for the mobility, I wouldn't have them.
My $.02
SZ