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Communication of Private Secrets to the Press by the Police

NCJ Number
87137
Journal
Schriftenreihe der Polizei-Fuehrungsakademie Issue: 2 Dated: (1982) Pages: 143-161
Author(s)
W Mende
Date Published
1982
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This article examines West German law with respect to two conflicting interests -- the interest of the press in revealing information and the interest of persons concerned with maintaining secrecy.
Abstract
The law is reviewed regarding the concerns for and right to confidentiality on the part of accused offenders and their families as well as of victims and their families. It is concluded that a legitimate conflict of interest between the public's right to know and a citizen's right to privacy occurs only if the person in question can be individualized. The principle of individualization pertains to generally recognized public figures about whom the press and media are obliged and entitled to inform the populace. A total of 37 footnotes are given.

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