No laws prevent publishing of crime victims' names

• Published February 17, 2006 Modified October 19, 2006

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02/17/2006 – Maybe somebody at the Olympian can explain why the victim's name was included in this piece (click to read stalker story). The events could just as easily been described without it. -- jimg, theolympian.com comments (click to see comments)

From executive editor Vickie Kilgore: The Olympian does not name victims of sexual abuse, but this case did not involve a charge of sexual assault. Also, the victim called us. She was interviewed by a reporter and knew she would be quoted in the story. She appeared in broadcast reports as well, speaking about the incidents and giving her identity. Typically, other than in sexual assault cases, The Olympian does insist on using names. We are not restricted by law. A name adds credibility. It assures readers that a real person was involved and, in this case, helped readers better understand what an alleged stalking victim endures.

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