Bannon says Duff Wilson told them he was getting ready to run a story that, because of their discovery efforts, they knew was not true. This happened all the time with the media. “it was our duty to make sure it was reported accurately, to make sure the truth was reported.”
Wilson’s article was going to be about bruises on Mangum’s face but Bannon had photos showing no bruises. Knowing that, he said, “I’m going to send them the photographs.”
Williamson: Did the defense consult with a public relations firm? Bannon: No. We don’t listen to PR people to tell us what to do.
Question from Sharon Alexander of the panel: Did pre-trial publicity impact your doing your job of defending your client?
Bannon: Yes. You shouldn’t have to have your day in court if you’re innocent and there is no evidence against you. Lawyer has a duty to protect his client in the court of public opinion.
Alexander: But your work pre-trial wasn’t affected by this.
Bannon: Yes it was because Durham was ground zero for Nifong and the jury pool there was being impacted by his comments.
Bannon is excused.
