Hedley’s rep destoryed

Dear editor: Let me be clear that perpetrators of sexual assault need to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I applaud those with the courage to come forth.

Listening to CBC this morning, I learned of Jacob Hoggard, a member of the rock band Hedley, who was being accused of raping a young lady. His name was made public as soon as the allegation was made. However, the young lady in question remains anonymous to respect her privacy.

Even if this accusation turns out to be false, this young man will forever have the stigma of “rapist” attached to his name.

I’m puzzled as to why it’s OK to taint someone’s reputation before he’s been charged and taken to trial. Is the media to blame and or the court system?

As a parent of a daughter, I hope that my wife and I have given her advice and guidance needed to avoid high-risk situations.

I have a friend who is a worldclass musician and have been told in conversation about the groupy mentality — young ladies putting themselves at risk.

No matter the place or circumstance, no should mean no. However, I wonder how many of the recent accusations against famous people are from those who in the moment were willing to do anything asked of them to gain favour. We all make mistakes and we all need to shoulder the responsibility for our choices. Gord McLaren Penticton