Saturday, May 28, 2016
Attorney General Doug Chin thanks the public for their help—the right way
by Larry Geller
A press release landed on the Disappeared News city desk this morning that is impressive several ways.
The email explains that:
Less than 24 hours after a request for public assistance, Honolulu Police Department officers this morning arrested Andrew Patyjewicz at Ala Moana Beach Park.
Patyjewicz was arrested on a grand jury bench warrant issued upon his indictment for criminal charges related to the possession and distribution of child pornography. The investigation was handled by the Hawaii Internet Crimes Against Children unit in the Attorney General's office.
What impressed me was first that the AG took the trouble to quickly thank the public, but more than that, he made it clear that
Patyjewicz is presumed innocent unless and until he is found guilty of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
That’s really important, especially in these crazy times when the public needs to be reminded that anyone who looks different is really not likely to be a terrorist. Yes, everyone is innocent until proven guilty, that’s the American way, even if we need reminders once and awhile.
So Patyjewicz, despite the seriousness of the charges, is still innocent. I’m glad that the AG took the trouble to mention that.
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