Re: Re: Cameras/mics allowed in high profile St. Louis trial
I don't find it surprising for cameras/mics to be in the courtroom. Missouri has a pretty open and easy process, each circuit has a coordinator, they are contacted, the coordinator takes the request to the judge who then rules (extremely rare when they say no) cameras are allowed, the coordinator then calls media back who made requests and then the coordinator picks the pool.
I've said this once and I'll say it again to anyone in a capacity to influence judges in this state to get cameras and mics in the court. When talking about this issue, ALWAYS ask them, "Have you ever watched Court TV?" If their answer is yes, the reply is natural, "Then why is Illinois law in the 19th century?"
Maybe I haven't seen it here, but does any circuit allow the circuit court clerk to tape trials to record and preserve the proceedings like a court recorder?" If it's illegal for the the actual circuit clerk staff to videotape to do their job, then why is it ok for cops have video cameras in cars for the benefit of prosecutors but not the court staff?
Maybe I've been out of Illinois too long to see where common sense prevailed. The mentality and attitude of those in charge who could allow us to tape is as modern as a covered wagon.
