Truth will prevail in Wheaton College hazing

Steve Thompson's letter of Sept. 24 regarding the Wheaton College situation illustrates the rush to judgment that seems to prevail in our society.

It is my understanding that in our system of justice that an individual who has been charged is presumed innocent until all the facts are considered and a finding of guilty is rendered. However, when matters are reported in the media and press they of course must be true or why else would they be publicized.

Mr. Thompson's letter is a case in point. When the incident occurred in March of 2016 it was immediately brought to the attention of the coaching staff by other team members. Other college officials were notified and an independent third party investigator was retained by the college. As a result of the investigation that was conducted corrective disciplinary actions were taken and changes in practices were implemented.

No effort was made to ignore what happened contrary to Mr. Thompson's allegations. No publicity was made of the incident as it was handled internally. Students' rights were honored. Frequently poorly judged and crazy things occur on college campuses, precautions notwithstanding. Truth will prevail; it always does.

Congratulations to Mr. Thompson on his son's college football career at another Division III school. With his critical and judgmental spirit and attitude a fit at Wheaton would have been really tough.

William Peterson

Carol Stream