Kobe Bryant

The story, "Prosecutors Drop Kobe Bryant Rape Case," in today's New York Times, brings up some interesting issues. The story quotes a law professor who complained about prosecutor Mark Hurlbert's continued use of the word "victim" in a press conference yesterday. The professor said Hurlbert was "quasi-announcing that Kobe Bryant is a rapist and that's the way it is." Should prosecutors be zealous advocates for conviction, even in the face of weak facts? Should they cast themselves in the role of quasi-judges, making judgment calls about when a victim's story does not justify bringing charges?

Another interesting point about the coverage of the Bryant dismissal in the last two days: I would venture to say that many journalists can hardly hide their glee that the charge against Bryant has been dropped.