To the Editor:
I realize that police reports and criminal complaints are a matter of public record. However, in reference to your “News of Record” column published November 8, 2017, I believe you could have used more discretion in your reporting.
You essentially publicly identified a victim of child abuse in your newspaper. This is a small county and while I am not familiar with the parties involved, I am sure a great many people are. It is industry standard not to identify such victims. You also published the details of the alleged abuse.
I am sure the victim has been traumatized enough. But the details you published could certainly cause more trauma and slow this person’s recovery. It will certainly give other victims second thoughts about reporting abuse. I hope you will use better judgement in the future.
Sincerely,
Terry Stone
Thomas, WV
