Legal News

Fox says...James Bulger killer Jon Venables 'must not be prejudged'
Thu 11th Mar 10 - 16:06

Article written by Stephen Fox, Senior Partner at Ralli.

Jon Venables, one of the killers of James Bulger, must not be "prejudged" by speculation over allegations he faces, ministers have said.

Recent newspaper reports have alleged that he was recalled to prison on suspicion of child pornography offences.

The insatiable obsession of journalists, some of whom have the exuberance of youth but lack the judgement that comes with experience has now turned to identifying the new name and actions of Jon Venables.

We do not know what he is alleged to have done but it is absolutely essential that he has the right to a fair trial, not tainted by the sensationalism which seems to be used nowadays as the primary tool with which to sell newspapers. 

Justice may come at a price and that price may involve journalists maintaining a dignified silence but if they don't, society may reach the stage where no trial at all can take place because fairness cannot be guaranteed. 

One can't help wondering to what extend the media coverage of Commander Ali Dizaei's case may have affected the judgment of those involved in his trial. 

There is a social responsibility of the press which sometimes is lost in the pursuit of short term sensationalism. That social responsibility also applies to the families of the little boy who was the victim of a truly wicked deed.