Issued by: Department of Justice
MEDIA STATEMENT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE: INCORRECT REPORTING IN THE PRINTED MEDIA
It is with great dismay that the Department of Justice has taken note of the significant incidences of incorrect reporting in the printed media of late. This applies in particular to court reporting. It would appear that scant consideration is given to the portrayal of the correct, substantiated facts found by the courts, and that more consideration appears to be given to sensationalism, especially where so-called high profile crimes are concerned.
A recent example in this regard is the case of attempted rape which was heard in the Nelspruit Regional Court. It was widely reported in the printed media that the accused was "fined R200 for rape". It is not surprising that this resulted in a huge outcry from, amongst other, women and children's groups.
The facts are, however, completely contrary to that which reported. Although the accused was charged with attempted rape, he was, on the evidence accepted by the court, found guilty of common assault. No complaint of rape or sexual assault was made. A sentence of R400 or eight months' imprisonment was subsequently imposed d media is reminded that it has a responsibility to the general public to report the truth and to steer clear of sensationalism.
ISSUED BY THE CHIEF LIAISON OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE 13 JUNE 1997 PRETORIA