Some readers want to know why the Albert Lea Tribune has not released the name of the four young women at the center of the alleged abuse at the Good Samaritan Society of Albert Lea.

It’s not because they are women.

It’s not because of their age.

It’s not about fear of lawsuits.

It’s simply because they have not been charged with anything.

Yes, the Tribune could print the names, regardless of the charges. We don’t need permission. Please refer to the First Amendment on that matter — the parts about free speech and press. This is America.

The fact that the Tribune knows the names shows we care just as much about this case as you do. It took some investigating.

But as journalists we have to ask ourselves this: What if it is all talk? What if they didn’t do anything? What if no charges are brought? We must be fair, even to suspects.

We know, we know. It’s hard for some people to fathom. However, most people realize that truth can be stranger than fiction. You never know what comes next.

With any case, charges do not mean a person is guilty of a crime, but they do mean the government believes a person has committed a crime. On one hand, it is good for the public to know who the government is charging for reasons of public safety. On the other hand, it is good for the person being charged to have the information in the hands of the public because it keeps our courts and judicial system open to public scrutiny. In some countries, one day you are walking down the street, and the next you are taken away. People have no idea what happened to you.

Does this mean that if no charges are brought the Tribune will not print the names? Frankly, it all depends. We will cross that bridge if we come to it.

The Good Sam case is in the hands of state and county prosecutors. Let’s allow them to do their jobs. People need to realize this is no easy task. It is no slam-dunk case, no matter what outside appearances might seem.