[UPDATED] Auburn releases Selena Roberts’ email requesting interview for McNeil story, calls it ‘gotcha, hide-the-ball journalism’

What does Auburn Director of Strategic Communications Jack Smith think about Selena Roberts’ story?

“This was gotcha, hide-the-ball journalism at its worst.”

That’s what he told reporters covering Auburn’s spring practice Friday, after releasing Robert’s emailed request for an interview with Jay Jacobs about “the armed robbery charges involving Mosley, Kitchens, Goodwin and McNeil.”

Hi Kirk — I’m working on a piece about the armed robbery charges involving Mosley, Kitchens, Goodwin and McNeil. After interviewing more than a dozen people about that night, I had some questions regarding Auburn University and former Coach Gene Chizik’s role in the case. I’m requesting an interview with Jay Jacobs about the information I received.

I can be reached at [number redacted].

Thank you, Selena.

Selena Roberts

Founder| Roopster Media Group, LLC
Roopstigo Sports Network

Smith should know a thing or two about journalistic standards. He earned a masters degree in journalism from the University of Alabama, and was Editor, Publisher and General Manager of The Eufaula Tribune (that Eufaula Tribune) for 11 years. He’s also a former advisor for the Auburn Plainsman.

Here’s his reply:

Selena,

Good afternoon. Kirk Sampson forwarded me your email requesting an interview with Jay Jacobs about former football players involved in the 2011 robbery. We respectfully decline the opportunity to be interviewed for your story at this time. Best of luck and thanks for reaching out to us.

Respectfully,

Jack

Jack Smith
Director of Strategic Communication
Auburn Athletics

Smith says the email was released in response to Freedom Of Information Act request. It obviously mentions nothing about changing grades or what Will Mushchamp kept in his office drawer.

Photo via.

Related: Jay Jacobs releases statement on McNeil allegations, says Selena Roberts misrepresented her intentions for story.

THE WAR EAGLE READER NEEDS YOUR HELP!

…

Keep Reading:

* Selena and Auburn
* Apple CEO Tim Cook huge Auburn fan even in high school
* Auburn grad attorney had no qualms defending Updyke
* A Momma Goldberg’s menu from 1979
* More photos of Shug and his houndstooth hat
* The story behind Auburn’s epic 1896 rail-greasing prank on Georgia Tech

Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter. Want to advertise?