The only substantial conclusion we can reach from the story is that Mr. Collins made a mistake one day, and did all he could to make up for it the next day. In this case, journalists must remember that unnecessarily scandalous presentations of stories wreck a newspaper's credibility. Many readers have questioned the use of anonymous sources. But reporters must strive for better marks in their pursuit of truth and fairness. In this case, Mr. Collins' name might have sailed clear if The Cavalier Daily had investigated its anonymous sources more carefully to determine their credibility.
People always stand behind headlines.
They have names and faces and make mistakes. Each person, like each story, is unique. By all means, journalists should not turn a blind eye on crime or irresponsible behavior as a rule. But journalists must consider each story's particular context and circumstances, constantly questioning what purpose publishing a given story will serve. When a newspaper asserts itself as a bastion of truth, it must earn those stripes responsibly.