TRIAL: Citizens, watch this one

I’m writing to call on your paper for increased coverage of the Pfc. Bradley Manning’s trial.

Manning, who has been accused of leaking the largest document dump in U.S. history to Wikileaks, will be in Ft. Meade for a pre-trial hearing on July 16 and currently faces 23 different charges including one of “aiding the enemy.” If convicted he faces a sentence of life imprisonment.

Despite more than 760 days in pretrial confinement, many of them in solitary confinement, many media outlets have been too silent on Manning’s case, allowing the government’s treatment of him to continue in near secrecy.

The American public has a right to know what happens in his trial and what is revealed in his trial. American citizens, including Pfc. Manning are entitled to fair trials. Secrecy cannot ensure a fair trial.

A reckless, opaque conviction for Pfc. Manning could have dire consequences for future whistleblowers, journalists and activists. Furthermore, Americans are entitled to know the truth about what is revealed or not revealed during the trial and the truth of Manning’s guilt or innocence. Because of this, the media must do its part to engage the American public in a conversation about this trial and our government’s behavior before it’s too late.

I ask that you do your part and increase coverage of the Bradley Manning trial, beginning with his hearing on July 16.

E. O’HALLORAN

Spokane