For ads-free news, click here.
A Tennessee judge, I’Ashea Myles, has ruled against the public release of writings by Audrey Hale, the shooter responsible for the Covenant School shooting in Nashville.
The decision, grounded in copyright law, holds that the writings are protected under the copyright owned by the victims’ families. This ruling has ignited significant controversy and debate, with critics questioning the validity of the copyright claim and its broader implications for the release of evidence in criminal cases.
Opponents of the ruling argue that the public has a right to access such materials to ensure transparency and gain a deeper understanding of the tragic incident. They contend that withholding the writings prevents a comprehensive examination of the shooter’s motives and any potential failures that could be addressed to prevent future tragedies.
Furthermore, some legal experts and advocates assert that the application of copyright law in this context is unusual and could set a precedent that complicates the disclosure of critical information in high-profile criminal cases.
The case raises fundamental questions about the balance between legal protections and the public’s right to information in the pursuit of justice and accountability. Here are some reactions to the decision:
Judge I’Ashea L. Myles just BLOCKED the release of the Nashville school shooter’s manifesto. She cited copyright law.
She uses an influencer ring light in court. pic.twitter.com/Ez7dZOA14j
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) July 5, 2024
This is the judge that says you can’t see the Nashville shooter’s manifesto. pic.twitter.com/KoZueHdKS4
— Breanna Morello (@BreannaMorello) July 5, 2024
The Tennessee Star @TheTNStar and I WILL ABSOLUTELY APPEAL the decision by a TN judge not to release one single page of the Covenant School killer’s writings. https://t.co/ZiUtVhXiWw
— MichaelPatrick Leahy (@michaelpleahy) July 5, 2024