Publicizing DUI convictions an issue of public safety

The editorial board of The Olympian recently published an opinion on the proposed DUI laws that supported all of the proposals except for the one that would have the DUI offenders affix fluorescent yellow license plates to their vehicles. The Editorial Board stated, “We have moved beyond the days of public flogging in the town square” and concluded that “Increasing penalties might serve as a deterrent. Public humiliation won’t.” I completely agree with the editorial board, but just a few days later I saw the names of several people convicted of DUI published in The Olympian. In fact, I have noticed weekly publications of DUI convictions in The Olympian for over 40 years. Since The Olympian thinks that public humiliation is no deterrent, what is the purpose of continuing to publish these names? If you get a DUI in Pierce or King Counties, your name will likely not appear in any newspaper. I think it is time for The Olympian revise their policies on public humiliation in this area and many others.

If the Olympian will not revise this policy, then at least an explanation of this apparent hypocrisy is in order -- Roger, Olympia

Executive Editor Vickie Kilgore: The names of those charged with driving under the influence are part of the public record. The Olympian publishes these names in the interest of public safety and concern. The Editorial Board took a stance against the fluorescent license plates because they achieve no practical function other than embarassment, and the person driving the vehicle may not be the one who was charged.