Publicity in the O. J. Simpson Case

I think that Judge Lance Ito greatly overreacted to Faye Resnick’s book about O.J. and Nicole Simpson (Oct. 19 and 20). The book contains allegations that are detrimental to the reputation of each person. The potential jurors will use those allegations to reinforce their existing biases one way or the other. So the impact will not be significant. The composition of the jury will be dependent on the success of each side in rejecting jurors.

What the people don’t need is a postponement of the trial and the release of Simpson on bail. It is illegal. On with the trial! Let the publicity fall where it may! That’s as good as it gets for other defendants. Why is Simpson any different?

GEORGE BILLIPS

Rolling Hills

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* A weird justice system permits a book to disrupt a trial. Suppose a year’s delay had been granted--and then someone came up with another book?

LARRY RHINE

Los Angeles

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* The Simpson defense team made a daily appearance before the TV cameras, and wailed that Resnick’s book might have an influence on the Simpson jury. If they did not think their frequent appearances on TV did not influence the jury, then why are they doing it? Their jury consultant echoed a fear that the Resnick book would influence the jury. The consultant presumably is being paid (handsomely?) to do something that surely will influence the jury--she is telling the defense counsel which jurors to pick to win their case. Is she not engaging in obstruction of justice? So far things have been more than fair for Simpson. Why can’t “the people” get a fair trial, also?

TROXEY KEMPER

Los Angeles

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* Commenting on the Simpson news leaks and their potential impact on the jury, I see no compromise of Simpson’s rights. I am a veteran of many jury panels. The judge instructs the jury to disregard everything they have read, seen or heard about the case outside of the courtroom. When both sides have rested, the judge again gives additional instruction on how the jury is to interpret the evidence. The judge defines the law violated and the options regarding the level of guilt if the defendant is found guilty.

All of the above is well-documented and provided during deliberation. The jurors then can discuss, debate and challenge, but only the evidence given during the trial and the judge’s instructions can be used to support their point of view.

JOE R. CHAVEZ

Hacienda Heights

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* Regarding the Simpson trial and the media: The answer is obvious; tape the proceedings and release them after the verdict. The media can then report whatever they want, Simpson will get a less tainted trial, and the public will get a respite from the barrage.

HERB HUNDT

Downey

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* Again (Oct. 25), the front-page headline is about the Simpson trial. The Sports section’s lead article is the continuing Shell/Hostetler saga. (This week, folks, the added spicy ingredient: race.)

May I request you downsize The Times so I can carry my tabloid easier.

JOHN HORWICK

Ojai