Victims and their legal representatives must always be ready to engage with the press to ensure accurate representation of victim experiences
The Haber family drama played out on social media is once again a reminder of the necessity for careful navigation of media narratives when personal relationships, public perception, and the pursuit of justice come into play.
For both parties, former Malta goalkeeper Justin Haber (the accused) and his sister Pearl Vella Haber (the victim), the admission of guilt and a restraining order against Justin Haber did not fully address the emotional and psychological impact on the victim. Nor did it prevent Justin Haber from roping in his parents’ public support, exposing a complex family dynamic.
Vella Haber’s decision to publicly share her experiences beyond the court decision has been both brave and empowering, knowing full well that beyond the courtroom, victims remain exposed to public scrutiny and potential backlash.
In this case, the Haber parents’ support for their son on a Facebook video does not validate his actions – the legal finding against Justin Haber, a sports personality who is now a Labour Party local councillor, clearly decrees that his behaviour was unacceptable and threatening. Family dynamics, no matter how complex, are not above the importance of accountability and justice.
And in the case of the Haber family video, it seems that dissatisfaction at the court outcome and the teary admonishing of their daughter’s right to confront her brother’s threats, has only further exposed the family to more scrutiny and prejudice.
Control the narrative
✅ Victims and their legal representatives must always be ready to engage with the press to ensure accurate representation of victim experiences, while avoiding sensationalism, as a preventive tactic against overt displays of indignation.
✅ Collaboration with NGOs that support victims is crucial: this allows the victim’s message to be amplified, supported, and given credibility by experts in the field.
Demonstrate accountability
✅ Public figures accused of misconduct should be advised that when speaking publicly, they should acknowledge the situation without deflection, demonstrating accountability.
✅ By adhering strictly to legal rulings and avoiding public statements that could exacerbate the situation, they control the narrative to what is legally factual.
