Re: 鈥淭rial for Oak Bay man accused of killing his two daughters begins in 91原创,鈥� April 17.
I am writing to lodge my deep concerns about the nature of the coverage of this most tragic murder trial, which will, no doubt, be in the news for months to come.
As a parent of two children who attend the same school that these girls attended, I am aware that the atmosphere of dread amongst the teachers and parents is palpable as this trial begins.
This is a very small and close-knit community of people and you might imagine how devastating this event was for all of them. To see the headlines, along with graphic and disturbing details about the murders, has put the school on the highest alert as to the potential emotional repercussions for staff and students.
While I understand that this story requires coverage by the media, what I cannot begin to understand is the necessity of describing in horrific detail the scenes of the murders. In this age of immediate access to media by all ages of kids, I cannot see how this element of the story is necessary or legitimate. The trauma will only be relived by those who are compelled to read these stories. It is not enough to say that the reader beware.
I am requesting, as a concerned parent, that the media exercise the most tempered judgment as to what is absolutely relevant in covering this story. To simply add an 鈥渁dvisory鈥� to the story will only invite curiosity as to the details.
Dan Aire
Victoria
