The news is that Scott Sanders is not guilty, and Jim Coman is dismissing the remaining charges against Sanders and Tom Fox.
And finally, after nearly four long years-- after nearly four years of enduring an inquisition caused by our local machine-based identity politics-- the men who previously worked under David Wray are beginning to see some justice. Congratulations to Scott and Tom.
Hallelujah!!! And let more justice come raining down.
Update: Reactions from Sam Spagnola, Mary Johnson.
Update II: Ben Holder comments with characteristic restraint.:)
Update III: Preston Earle has more. And so does Tony Wilkins.
Well, Lorriane has one admirer and supporter, but why did he call her a fiend?
Brian Clarey said
February 21, 2009 at 1:42 pm
I’m a fan of cowboy boots, but personally I thought the hat and duster were a bit much.
What’s the matter… couldn’t find your chaps yesterday?
Seriously, though… I can’t comprehend all this vitriol about my fiend Lorraine. She’s a reporter, doing her job. When she hears stuff it’s her responsibility to check it out. And by most accounts — her peers, her co-workers, her readers — she is one of the best in the business. Reading her column make me feel like a piker.
And not for nothing (to borrow a phrase from the Outer Boroughs), but she probably knows more about this whole situation than any of you guys, things that are common knowledge among the cops but will *never* come to print.
Also: The scapegoating of Sanders really bothered you. Why can’t you see you’re doing the same thing here?
Posted by: Stormy | February 21, 2009 at 02:38 PM
Joe, sorry if this has been covered since I haven't had time to read through all the recent comments. Does this not guilty verdict mean the city will now release the photo line up book with the black cover?
Posted by: Tony Wilkins | February 21, 2009 at 03:38 PM
Stormy, I agree with you that one important example of the type of damage this fiasco caused is how Greensboro is perceived by outsiders. It is very difficult to reclaim a good name once you lose it.
Tony, the number of excuses they have to refrain from releasing information is decreasing every day that passes after the conclusion of the trial. But do I expect their behavior to change with respect to releasing information? Not necessarily, unless there is a changing of the guard, or a cataclysmic change of heart.
Posted by: Joe Guarino | February 21, 2009 at 05:34 PM