AP Reporter misrepresents herself to get interview with Steinbrenner

Sounds like someone didn't like getting beat.

 

Good overall explanation of the whole thing, to me.

 

Lying to get an interview is dishonest. Period.

 

Perhaps, I can help.
Pat Milton phoned and left a message with the secretary. What was left as the message is not of importance. George Steinbrenner called her back. He returned the phone call.
And, Steinbrenner knew who he was phoning. Milton is a reporter that has covered legal matters in the Five Boroughs for years, including the Howie Spira incident over 15 years ago. He knew who he was calling.

I'm afraid this thread has gone on for four pages with some misinformation.

 

Thanks, FW. We only know what we read in the papers.

 

It certainly doesn't ruin the ethical question at hand.
That said, this Steinbrenner/Milton story-incident shouldn't be the flashpoint for arguments. That's all.

 

Well then, I digress.

 

Not the best sentence you've ever written.

 

The reporter was wrong and should be reprimanded. It's another reason why the press is frowned upon.

 

If you go back and read the NY Times item that started all of this, it said that she got on the call list, meaning Steinbrenner called her back.
If a reporter needs to be reprimanded for having a source call them back, then that's like the stupidest thing ever.
The only thing that would run in papers then is press releases and line scores.

 

Earlier, I felt it not important to explain the message left with the secretary.
But, it doesn't make much difference.

Pat left a joke with the secretary. You see, they're really not friends. It was tongue-in-cheek. They're old adversaries, having jousted in the past. It was a line to get George Steinbrenner's attention.
There was nothing dishonest about it.