Introduction
The University of Georgia has taken issue with an article published by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC), stating that it contains numerous inaccuracies and baseless allegations. The university alleges that the article not only disregards the truth but also presents a harmful narrative that lacks factual evidence.
Challenging Inaccurate Claims and Lack of Evidence
One of the main contentions made by the university is the assertion in the AJC article that the UGA football program actively supports sexual misconduct. The university strongly disputes this claim and provides evidence to counter it. Contrary to what the article suggests, the university refutes the notion that 11 players accused of violent encounters with women were still part of the team. In fact, the university reveals that only two players were named, with the identity of an additional player remaining undisclosed.
Highlighting Discrepancies in Reporting
The university has made attempts to obtain the list of players mentioned in the article from the author, Alan Judd, but was denied access due to the AJC’s policy of not releasing unpublished information. The university argues that this refusal contradicts the AJC’s own code of ethics, which emphasizes transparency in newsgathering methods.
Refuting Allegations and Providing Accurate Information
Regarding serious allegations made against three players, the university clarifies that one of them was not even a team member when the allegations arose. The other two players, who were indeed part of the team, were suspended and never played again. It is important to note that one case was still under investigation, while the other involved unlawful surveillance rather than sexual assault and was subsequently dismissed.
Addressing the Request for Evidence and Raising Concerns
In relation to a specific incident mentioned in the AJC article, the university claims to have requested police reports and videos linked to the alleged incident, but none were provided. The university argues that the non-release of these videos is legally justifiable due to privacy rights and questions the accuracy of Judd’s account.
Questioning the Ethics of Reporting
The university raises concerns about Judd’s manipulation of quotes from a police interview with a 16-year-old recruit to fit his narrative. It also challenges Judd’s portrayal of players receiving the head coach’s “blessing” to attend a former player’s bond hearing, clarifying that attendance was voluntary for all players.
Demanding Retraction and Upholding Ethical Standards
Given the university’s dissatisfaction with Judd’s reporting, it calls for a retraction of the article and notes that this is not the first time Judd has been inaccurate in his reporting. The university emphasizes that the AJC claims to prioritize truth, accountability, fairness, and transparency and demands a swift and conspicuous correction of the identified errors.
Conclusion
As the University of Georgia disputes the authenticity of the AJC article, it awaits a response from the newspaper regarding its request for a retraction. The university stresses the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity and adhering to ethical reporting standards.
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