Pike County Common Pleas Judge Randy Deering issued an order on July 1, 2022 pertaining to media coverage in the George Washington Wagner IV murder trial, slated to begin Aug. 29 with the seating of the jury. It outlines what he will allow and not allow inside his courtroom — and on the entire floor where his courtroom is located.
Read the order here:
These orders are of the utmost importance in covering any trial, but certainly a high-profile one. Journalists (and all members of the public, really) must adhere to these courtroom rules. Judges determine what will be allowed and won't be allowed, while following state law and legal considerations usually set forth by the state's supreme court, for their courtrooms. In Ohio, the Rules of Superintendence govern how judges conduct themselves, the cases before them and their courtroom. Rule 12 outlines the conditions for broadcasting and photography during court proceedings.
Not all states allow video or still cameras in courtrooms. It is ALWAYS best to find this out before you start to cover a trial, so you know the rules. In many states, reporters are allowed to use their phones and/or laptops to take notes, live Tweet and/or take photographs. But reporters should always be mindful to be respectful when doing so (judges tend to frown on loud typing just like they do gum chewing!).
Several important parts of Deering's ruling include:
No electronic devices in his courtroom -- or even on the second floor of the courthouse.
The media has to decide who is recording and when.
Jury identities are not to be disclosed - including their photos.
No interviews are allowed to occur in the courthouse.
One more important note:
Please also remember the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics when reporting, notably to minimize harm. Courts are filled with the human drama of many people's worst days. Respect victims and/or the relatives of everyone involved. These days will mean they will relive the horrific days that forever changed their lives in way we, as journalists, will never be able to comprehend. Think: How would you wish to be treated if the tables were turned?
Important terms to know:
Voir dire: A French term refers to the process of asking potential jurors questions before they serve on a jury.
Pooling: This refers to one media sharing their video/photos with all the media.
Questions for students:
Why might you want to familiarize yourself with this rule?
What would your first step be after reading this order?
What questions do you have after reading the order?
Class: Please leave your answers/questions below for follow-up.