Salt Lake County, Utah – A Utah father accused of putting his three young children through a life-threatening mountain ordeal is now asking a judge to block cameras and livestreams from his courtroom hearings, arguing that public images of the case could harm the children involved.
Father seeks to limit publicity in high-profile child abuse case
Micah Smith, 31, faces three felony counts of child torture and three counts of aggravated child abuse, charges that could carry a life sentence if he is convicted. The case, brought by the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, has drawn national attention since details of the incident emerged.
Last week, Smith’s defense filed a motion asking the court to prohibit still photography, video recording, and livestreaming inside the courtroom. The request does not seek to close the proceedings to journalists or the public.
Defense argues images could harm the children
According to the motion, first reported by the Salt Lake Tribune, Smith’s attorney argued that images of their father in jail clothing or restraints could negatively affect the emotional well-being of the children.
The filing states that exposure to photos or videos of the proceedings is “unnecessary for the minor children” and that even limited media coverage could be “directly adverse to their interests and well-being.” The defense also warned that once footage is published online, it could remain accessible for years, increasing the likelihood the children could encounter it later in life…