“Victimized”

Cultural Context:  The term used in a statement by Entertainment Tonight to describe their position regarding a false news story they published last week about the birth of Angelina Jolie’s twins.  See the quote from the FoxNews article:

“Entertainment Tonight’ takes this very seriously and is, of course, concerned that the show may have been victimized by someone allegedly posing as a member of Ms. Jolie’s team,” the statement said. “We are actively investigating the matter and are reaching out to law enforcement agencies.”

Hmmm…
I find “victimized” an interesting choice of words in this relatively trivial situation.  I would encourage Entertainment Tonight to check out how a few other news outlets have used the term “victim” or “victimized” recently:

U.N. to pursue Darfur ‘war criminals’
CNN.com ~ June 5, 2008

70 arrested in Austrailia in pornography sting
CNN.com ~ June 5, 2008

Judge allows sect girl’s release, with conditions
CNN.com ~ June 4, 2008

U.S., Libya agree to try to resolve terrorism claims
Reuters.com ~ May 30, 2008 

Cyclone Survivors Victimized by Burma Soldiers
USAToday.com ~ May 28, 2008

Treaty to ban cluster bombs within 8 years
USAToday.com ~ May 28, 2008