Behind the Headlines

Stephanie Ariganello, Stephaniea@monroenews.com

Today was the most difficult day I’ve had as a reporter in awhile, if not ever. I was covering the murder trial of Sonya Moussaed, the 28-year old woman accused and now convicted of killing 17-month old Gracie Simmons. The verdict was called a little after 11:30 a.m. this morning. Sonya was found guilty of first degree murder.
It was difficult because I had to approach both families involved – one knowing their person was going to prison probably for life and the other dealing with the reality of the murder of a little girl. Both were experiencing intensely intimate moments and emotions and it was my job to interject myself into that, get an impression and then dispatch it to readers.
The people from Sonya’s family that I approached made it clear that they did not want to talk to me. A group of what I assume were her grandparents or at least older relatives literally turned their backs and refused to even answer if they were related to Sonya.
Walking up to Gracie’s father Joe, was nearly impossible. Dressed in a suit, pacing the hallways of the courthouse, crying, it was probably hardest to talk to him. I worked up the guts as he wandered away from the pack of family. I introduced myself and tried to explain that I wanted to talk to him, if he could, but I would understand if he needed some time. I will not soon forget the look he gave me. It was not necessarily personal, but I still felt this pressure in the back of my throat.
The reason we approach people in the first place is to help place the reader in their shoes. To help people understand what this is like. To make the experience a human one, rather than a hard news item. It also gives people a chance to tell their stories. That said, the reality is not always as idealistic as that.
It’s a fine line of compassion and professionalism – of sensitivity for those involved versus the need to get a job done – that we walk. I was right up against that wall today. I’m not whining about my job, it being difficult, etc. That’s not my point here. It’s simply that reporters are often regarded as cold, vulture-like creatures (and I have to admit I do think that somewhat about TV reporters) just out to get their quotes and move on, but it’s not like that.