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Support legislation to keep accused persons' identities confidential in criminal justice proceedings.

Created by C.D. on March 28, 2012

Persons accused of crimes should not have their identity available to news media outlets. Too often, people are slandered in the public eye before due process has run its course. Persons can be tried and convicted by public opinion before court proceedings ever begin.

The 5th Amendment of the US Constitution explicitly states no person shall "...be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law..." Allowing media outlets to report on criminal cases, specifically targeting the person or persons accused, is a clear violation of his or her liberty.

Controversial cases can end careers and ruin lives regardless of the accused party's guilt found after due process. Legislation clarifying the 5th Amendment must be enacted to protect the rights of defendants.

Criminal Justice Reform
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