I am not going to ask such a man over for dinner, of course. I am going to make the reasonable assumption, for my own purposes, that he is likely guilty, and act accordingly.
However, the state is held to a higher standard. NBC, when acting in concert with the state, should be held to the same standard. NBC is using local law enforcement to add a imprimatur of authority to their broadcast. But they are not holding themselves to the same standard.
This is evident by the fact that none of these cases goes forward for prosecution. The people are shamed on TV and that is the end of it.
But since the police are intimately involved in the shaming, this is a punishment that is imposed by the state without the benefit of a trial. These men are convicted of nothing, and yet their lives are ruined. They do not have a chance to defend themselves or confront their accusers, which is a right we grant to every murderer, rapist or thug in court.
We have a system of justice which works. It is cumbersome, at times, but it works. I see no reason to throw it out the window just so Dateline NBC can score a ratings victory over American Idol.
Where did you get this information? I have seen video of these guys appearing before a judge for arraignment; several months ago I remember seeing a follow-up story where the showed the results of the court proceedings on the entire lot that was caught on a particular show. Given that, I was led to believe that prosecutions were occurring.
The article notes:
In 11 stings, the show has exposed more than 250 potential predators, many of whom have been convicted.
First you said that you would show favor to the guy because he is to be presumed innocent ... then you are going to shun him because he's likely guilty.