Please just stick to the relevant facts

On Sept. 7, KCRG-TV9 reported on rape charges filed by authorities in Portland, Ore. Charged were two members of the armed forces who are stationed at Fort Lewis, Wash., and apparently were on leave. One of these young men happens to be a Manchester native who graduated from West Delaware High School in 2007.

Fortunately for the young man from Manchester, the evidence did not support the charges filed. His charges were dropped and he is back on base at Fort Lewis.

KCRG's initial account of the charges focused upon the soldier from Iowa and his relationship with West Delaware schools. According to administrative officials, while in Manchester developing the story, KCRG made no attempt to discuss the story with West Delaware staff.

As heinous as the initial allegations were, what basis does KCRG have for associating these events with West Delaware and the hundreds of graduates who move successfully into postsecondary education or the work force successfully? KCRG should review the list of criteria used to build stories and stick to facts that are relevant while considering the potential for damage incurred from overstating.

Mike Ryan

Manchester