Quote:
Originally posted by preciousjeni
If the police tell a paper not to print names, though, it is illegal for the paper to do so.
|
Actually, I don't think that's true. Police can request, but not compel a news organization not to publish/broadcast something. Also, to be libel, there has to be proof not only that the information is false, but that it was published with full knowledge the information is wrong and intent to injure the other party. It is very hard to prove.
ETA:
"there are still ethical and legal issues surrounding that sort of situation that should have kept that paper from printing that information."
Again, there are not legal issues with publishing a rape victim's name unless a court has so ordered. Most newspapers and broadcast organizations will not, generally, identify a rape victim because they feel it's unethical -- but it is not a legal issue. Under some very special circumstances, news organizations do name victims as well as suspects.
The Kobe Bryant trial here in Colorado is a good case in point. A Tabloid ID'd the alleged victim, but mainline news media here in Denver still haven't used her name to the best of my knowledge.
Hybrid Mode
