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Sensationalized reporting
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Posted on Feb 02 2005
As the Family Violence Task Force has pointed out to you in a prior domestic violence case, there is a fine balance between the public’s right to know and the protection of a victims’ right. Showing a victim’s face on television (no matter how briefly) or reporting graphic details of the crimes perpetrated against her (or him) only serve the media’s need to sensationalize the story and does a grave disservice to the victims. All the details borne out in a police report do not have to be reported, even if it’s a matter of public record. The Feb. 1, 2005 story in the Saipan Tribune was particularly egregious. Common decency tells us that the facts can be given to the public in a manner that does not re-victimize the victim through the press. If the victim was your mother, sister or daughter, you would most definitely think twice about what is printed or aired.
The media is our partner in educating the community about the crime of domestic violence. We need your help to let the community know that brutal and dehumanizing crimes are unfortunately being committed in the home and we are grateful for this type of coverage. We are all challenged to make a difference. The CNMI is not unique; our problems with domestic violence are the same as in other places in the rest of America and other parts of the world. What makes us different is that we are a small island community that is beginning to recognize the need to work together to end domestic violence. The media has to be on ally in this mission. We are trying to restore lives, nit destroy them.
As chairman on the Family Violence Task Force, I ask that you join us in our efforts to assist victims of domestic violence, to send the message to perpetrators that you will be held accountable for the crimes you commit against those you are supposed to love. Remember domestic violence is all about power and control. The media uses power and control over a victim just as a batterer does when it chooses to print sordid details of the crime. Please help us maintain a balance in favor of victims.
On behalf of the members of the Family Violence Task Force.
Clyde Lemons, Jr.
Chairman
Family Violence Task Force
