Adam Hinz: The Blog
On 2004-09-15 at 9/15/2004 01:22:00 AM...
I think it's interesting how those who address the press are hesitant about using certain words. Like the rigged envelopes story. Here's a quote:Authorities said they were interviewing correctional officers and inmates at the prison and have narrowed their investigation to "a person of interest."
I remember in 4th grade we were studying words involving crimes and detectives and such, and one of the words was "suspect." Seems like that word would be appropriate here, but maybe they're too worried about incorrectly labeling someone a suspect. I'm not sure why, though. My understanding of the justice system is something like this:
1) You're a suspect.
2) You're arrested.
3) You're tried.
4) You're found guilty or innocent.
Ok, so why not just call that person a suspect? They're not arrested. They're not tried. They're still considered innocent from a legal standpoint. Maybe they don't want this "person of interest" to know that the police are on to them? But that's stupid. Who's gonna think that?
That CNN article isn't the first time i've heard that. On the local news a few weeks ago they ran a story about some murder, and the police believed as many as three individuals may have been involved. They had actually taked custody of those believed to be involved The reporter asked the police chief THREE TIMES if those being held were "suspects" in the case, and the chief each time said, "They are people of interest." WTF.
Just call them suspects. Please.
Ok, long stupid entry i'm sorry
Ada,m