Readers of The Canberra Times were concerned when legal reporter Roderick Campbell wrote 'Mental health problems were second only to drug dependency as the cause of crime'.  The article, entitled 'Judge goes into bat for the mentally ill' was published on 27.05.06.

Readers expressed concerns that Mr Campbell was reinforcing outdated myths about mental illness and violence. According to the research, young men are far more likely to engage in criminal acts, than someone with a mental illness.

StigmaWatch wrote to Mr Campbell reminding of the Guidelines which state 'When reporting on a story that involves mental illness, it is important to ensure that the information presented in the article is accurate and balanced.'  

 Mr Campbell replied on 21.07.06 stating:

'I fear that you, or your correspondents, have misinterpreted the article. . .   With respect, I do not think I need 're-educating."