An image is spreading that claims a man named Cody Wright attacked a 4 year old girl. The image purports to show photos of both of them along with the claim that Cody should “pray cops catch him before other people do”.
The image can be seen below with the photos blurred out by us.
Cody Wright from Manchester NH did this to this 4 year old little girl. He better pray cops catch him before other people do… let’s make him famous people
This is a classic example of reckless “trial by social media”, which implores others to accuse and condemn an individual via social media using unverified information, often using information that publicly identifies that individual, in this case his photograph and name.
It’s the digital version of vigilantism, and as we know is often the case with this type of misguided attempt at retribution, it often results in innocent people being targeted by accident.
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What we know about the photo above is that is has been spreading since the end of 2015, which is over two years from the time of writing, meaning at the very least, the post is now completely out-dated.
We also know that the Manchester police department is aware of the photo, but has denied making the photos available or that anyone is wanted. Their response –
To: Press
11December 2015
A picture has surfaced on social media, specifically on Facebook of a child with injuries.
The Manchester Police Department is currently investigating as to whether or not there is a criminal aspect to the case.
We as an agency would not and did not submit or post these photographs. Furthermore, the investigation remains in its infantile stage and no one is wanted at this time.
In cases such as this, it is important that the authorities are left to conduct their own investigations. This is called “due process” and without it, anyone could potentially accuse any other person of a crime which could result in damage being inflicted upon the accused regardless of their innocence.
A social media post is not sufficient evidence to condemn someone of a crime, and nor is hearing it was true “from a friend of a friend”. As such, we don’t recommend spreading this post, or others of its ilk. If you suspect someone of a crime, contact the authorities. Don’t engage in this reckless type of cyber vigilantism. Read more on “trial by social media” in our post here.
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