THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, June 22, 1994 TAG: 9406220009
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A8 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: Medium
DATELINE: 940622 LENGTH:
Nicole Simpson's murder and O.J.'s subsequent chase, arrest and arraignment were gripping television. My wife and I were glued to the tube Friday night as O.J. was pursued (escorted?) through Los Angeles. It was like watching a live re-enactment of ``The Fugitive.''
{REST} I was disappointed by the opportunism that surfaced during the incident. The networks grabbed for ratings, Barbara Walters found a platform for domestic-violence advocacy, and Los Angeles' district attorney seemed to be making campaign speeches. O.J.'s problems are very profitable.
But during the chase, I couldn't help thinking that all of the press/TV saved O.J. The live coverage, special reports, days of headlines and TV news have inundated the nation with accounts of the affair. If O.J. goes to trial, it will be nearly impossible to find an untainted jury.
Additionally, interviews with friends and colleagues during the chase, especially Al Michaels, make an insanity plea easier. Videotapes play into the hands of O.J.'s defense attorneys. Even if he is convicted, the court of public opinion has already been swayed.
I pray that O.J. is truly innocent. But as with other high-profile cases, we should be aware of the effect that a media circus has on the legal system.
We must balance the public's right to know, the media's right to profit and the right of society (and the accused) to a working legal system. As technology allows near-real-time media coverage of events around the world, the press must be aware of its power not only to document but also to shape and influence future events, and shoulder the awesome responsibility it entails.
MICHAEL J. COLLINS
Virginia Beach, June 20, 1994 by CNB