Editor,
The picture of former UNM president F. Chris Garcia in Thursday’s paper was in exceedingly poor taste and very mean-spirited.
It shows a propensity to embarrass and could best be described as tabloid journalism worthy of the Murdoch empire. The article states that all charges have been dropped at this time and that although they could be reinstated at a future date, at this time he was free without restrictions. Therefore, why not run one of the Lobo’s file photos of Garcia while he was president.
Sensationalism is not what puts the paper in its best light.
On another note, I called last evening and talked with Photo Editor Zach Gould. He disclaimed any responsibility or knowledge of who placed the mugshot, stating that he did not close the paper on Wednesday evening and did not know who did. He promised to find out and ask that person to call me. I am still waiting for the call.
When I was on the Student Publications Board in the late 60s (along with Tony Hillerman) this would not have been tolerated.
Coleman Travelstead
UNM community member
Editor’s Note: The photo in question was chosen by assistant photo editor Dylan Smith and was approved by managing editor Elizabeth Cleary and editor-in-chief Chris Quintana. It ran alongside the article “Prosecution puts F. Chris Garcia case on hold.”
