They are authorized to invade other people's privacy. They don't have to offer evidence. Joyce Maynard has identified herself as a victim and put herself in the pillory. Anyone can empty chamber pots on her. I am reminded of Jeffrey Massom's histories of 19th century German child abuse and incest victims, who were punished and even institutionalized for accusing their betters of rape, torture and perversion.
Shame is the least expensive weapon of social control.
Aesop's hungry wolf asks the well-fed dog. The pit bulls of American journalism think they are being ferocious when they are set snarling on today's officially designated victim, but all they are doing is showing the collar and rattling the chain in socially approved tantrums that are among their rewards for loyal service. Org Mailing List by Jules Segiel, Christine Wexler, et al. Here's how to get a referral system like this on your own site, for free.