Georgia Supreme Court allows suit to go to trial but U.S. Supreme Court reverses. Punishing journalists for publishing lawfully obtained truthful information would lead to self-censorship and timidity in reporting important information to public. State law bars media from publishing or broadcasting name of victim of sexual offense. Sheriff's office names rape victim in press release, although posted sign warns that such names not public. Cub reporter for Jacksonville weekly includes victim's name in story, contrary to paper's policy.
Victim sues for invasion of privacy.
U.S. Supreme Court reverses. If government wants to keep information confidential it should take stronger measures to safeguard it. Today publishes photo of Hilda Bridges partially nude as she flees apartment where estranged husband had forced her to disrobe then killed himself. Florida appellate court reverses. Appellate court holds that Bridges involved in newsworthy event.