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Mr. W. Kamm
The Editor, Dear Sir, It is my understanding of "media ethics" contained in the Charter of the Press Association, that it is the duty of those reporting matters of a said situation, for the rights and benefit of the public, that the true and unbiased representation of what has been said, or portrayed, be detailed in fact and truth. Over a period of nearly twenty years, the South Coast Register has portrayed this overall. However, this has changed, dramatically, in this past week when I have been in Court for a Committal Hearing. In particular, I refer to your Article by Mr. Glenn Ellard, page 4, of today’s edition – 11th August, 2003.
There is a gross misrepresentation of the truth which misleads the public 100%, making them believe the Magistrate has committed me for trial, as I am guilty. How can Mr. Ellard assent this as truthful reporting when, in fact, he was not in Court at the time Mr. O’Connor handed down his decision. This is far from the truth! The Magistrate simply stated there was enough evidence to make a "Prima Facie" Case against Kamm, but he as yet to determine whether there was sufficient evidence for a jury to be likely to convict him. "Prima Facie" is Latin for "on the face of it!" On the face of it does not mean I am guilty, nor does it mean it is a foregone conclusion that I am guilty and will go to trial. It is also to be noted that I reserved my right to give evidence in my defence. This will be done, if needed. Your paper misled the public in your Article dated 6th August, 2003, with the heading:
Under the above heading was the statement of the person who charged me. Because of what was said by the woman, the article led people to believe that it referred to me, not the woman. But when you turn to page 2, then it is revealed that there was blackmail, extortion and threats made against me; that they lied and deceived, and made deals with the Television Station. This is misleading the public! You cleverly misrepresented the evidence by clouding the subject. Therefore I have asked my Lawyers to now proceed with legal action against your paper, unless a formal apology is given on the front page. For the benefit of the public at large, I once again assert what I stated in Court on Friday the 8th August: "I am innocent of all charges!" Yours faithfully, [signature] William Kamm |
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