Make that Barrett's alleged assailant
I couldn't help but notice a regrettable bit of journalistic carelessness in your Aug. 21 issue. It appeared in "The Week in Review" column dealing with the Aug. 15 attack on Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. Describing the assault at the Wisconsin State Fair, the writer referred to Barrett's "20-year-old assailant." Based on a cross-reference of other media sources, it was easy for me to figure out you were referring to the suspect, Anthony J. Peters. Peters has not been convicted of this offense, at least not yet.
I'm not an unabashed fan of the United States' "criminal justice system." However, one thing that is positive about our common law tradition, in contrast to a number of other legal codes in use worldwide, is its presumption of innocence. Wouldn't it have been more prudent to describe Mr. Peters as Barrett's "alleged assailant"?
Even in the most heinous crimes, the suspect should be extended all the protections of due process.
Dan A. Goldstein
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