Whenever the TV media goes into a frenzy over something or someone - such as former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn being accused of rape on May 14, I get suspicious. Especially when the accused is a real threat to the powers that be (as DSK was as the head of the IMF and as a possible French presidential candidate). The one-sided and irresponsible TV coverage, ruining this man's career and character before he was ever tried in court, convinced me to refrain from judgement until all the facts were in.
My distrust of the media's motives and hesitance to embrace its salacious narrative was vindicated late yesterday when it was reported that the case against Strauss-Kahn is collapsing. Apparently, the accuser has lied to investigators repeatedly and is connected to some pretty shady characters. Their dealings include drug trafficking, money laundering and depositing at least $100,000 into her bank account over the last two years.
The new evidence doesn't mean Strauss-Kahn and the Guinean-born maid didn't have relations. DNA evidence does point to some kind of interaction. However, with these new revelations of the accuser's untrustworthiness and criminal connections, the felony charges will probably be dropped and strict bail conditions lessened. Strauss-Kahn will be in court today for a previously unscheduled hearing.
My only question now is will the TV media spend several days harping on the accuser's sketchy connections and the possible setting-up of Strauss-Kahn to take him out politically? And will it take responsibility for its part in destroying this man's reputation before a jury could ever hear the facts? I highly doubt it.
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