Newspaper joins war against drugs
This article discusses the ethical realms of the Standard-Times publishing photos of those accused of drug charges. Although many support the papers publications, some argue that it renders the defendant’s right to a fair trial since they are not yet deemed guilty. An ACLU lawyer says it violates journalism ethics to photograph people only accused of crime.
I believe the Standard-Times are right to publish photos of the accussed. This city is fighting a war on crime and the easier it is to put these drug deals behind bars, the better.
Sounding an alarm on AIDS:
A newspaper in Key West published the names of AIDS victims and those associated with AIDS programs, hoping to alert the community of the rising problem.
Although, I believe the paper was doing a good thing in letting the community know of the AIDS spreading in Key West, I question if it was worth it it the end. The paper burned a lot of bridges and lot valuable sources that could have been used for further investigation. Furthermore, exposing Noreen Sofranac, who says her credibility was ruined, perhaps hindered AIDS victims from coming forward in the future.
