|
Original
Message --------
|
Subjectct:
|
RE: million-dollar
digs
|
|
Date
|
Tue, 2 Sep 2003
15:03:18 -0400
|
|
From
|
"John Sugg"
<john.sugg@creativeloafing.com>
|
|
To
|
<wilson@citicom.com>
|
Please
cite the errors. I hate to remind you of Journalism 101, but public records
enjoy a privilege. Quoting accurately, even reasonable interpretation, from a
public record is a near-absolute defense. A non-specific assertion that the
records are in error would not (1) detract from their privilege and (2) could
not be construed as sufficient warning of an error even if the privilege did not
apply. So, quit playing games and making threats, and cite the error.For
example, there could be an incidental mistake in spelling that doesn't detract
from the overall accuracy of the document. Or, as is possibly the case here,
I've been told that you and Jane are no longer married. So the "error"
could be the reference to the two of you as spouses.If there is another
interpretation, please provide it, along with your documentation that PRIVILEGED
public records are in error. And, considering how much you bemoaned not getting
sufficient press coverage of issues related to your case (see Jane's piece in
Into the Buzzsaw), you are not only are a public figure, but are a vortex public
figure. And, since you have made your finances a matter of public concern --
urging supporters to help you get back on your feet in a case you sought
publicity about -- then examination of your finances is fair game. The
questions still stand.
______________________________________________________
"Absolute truth is a very rare and
dangerous commodity
in the context of professional
journalism."
-- Hunter S. Thompson
John
Sugg
Senior Editor
Creative Loafing
Atlanta, Georgia
John.sugg@cln.com
404-614-1241
|