They can try all they want to dig up a story as long as it is not interfereing with the natural cycle of things. So yeah, they should report what happens and somewhat try to get the story flowing.

In cases of the chatroom, I would instantly be suspicious and not believe anyone that the investigator did not "lure" the politician in. I would need proof from multiple angles on this. In a world where communication is so easy, and money/power talks so loudly - I tend to believe people who were ambushed or set up.

It may make a good story for two seconds, but if it is discredited ever, I would hope that journalsist and his represented company get flushed.

Bipper