Model’s escape

I reached the end of the report about the attempted rape of Danielle Hayes in France (‘‘Martial arts moves save Top Model’’, News, September 18), to be angered and disgusted by the the last paragraph: ‘‘The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says petty crime is common in France.’’ Is rape and/or attempted rape to be considered a petty crime nowadays? I should hope not! It is this sort of comment/reporting that will actually make rape and attempted rape a ‘petty crime’ in our society but only for would-be rapists. Nicola McGuire, Porirua This newspaper is subject to NZ Press Council procedures. A complaint must first be directed to feedback@star-times.co.nz. If you are not satisfied with your response, write to the Press Council, PO Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143, or use the complaint form at presscouncil.org.nz. Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.