Legal issue

That would imply that he has internet access and knows where to find his likeness in order to initiate the lawsuit.

True, but that situation could happen to anyone the photographer doesn't know.

Unless you ask to look at their driver's license.

I have started hiring some models from the local college and I make sure that I make a photo copy of their license. :)

If I were "out in the world" doing stock work, I'd take a photo or roll off a few seconds of a close-up of their ID.

Something that we learned from an attorney at an event about such issues is, if you are shooting on the street and focus on a specific subject - let's say some girl rollerblading and smiling for the camera - get about 30 seconds to a minute of the subject holding their ID next to their face and have them state their name, age etc.. if they are a minor you will still need to get a guardian or parental release. Then have them sign the release (as long as they are of age.)

If I had model releases on me, which I did not, I would have had him sign it, and I would have recorded him signing it :-). Like you said vader.

I can up this as editorial, right?

I think some shows also ask the person "do we have permission to record you?" and record that to keep it on file. In addition to the release.... I mean thats a little far fetched Scott, I guess you could do handwriting analysis on the guy.

I don't have the model release from him either way. But editorial value it might have, for some news agencies maybe...

Scott, just do it.
Did you create the LLC so he can't sue you personally? :-)

I'd go with editorial, other site that requires caption for editorial you could have something like "Rescession leading to more homeless people" Then it is news worthy and editorial

Actually - in this case it is obvious that he didn't mind being filmed. He is actually reacting to the camera - almost in a joking way - he definitely looks to not be a minor - hence, he "releases" himself by doing so. There is an actual term for this type of release, I just can't remember what it is. But the second thing is it was on a public street. This give full rights in any case. I would not worry about it and simply put it up. It is really news worthy. It could be used to sell beer for example - Okay, that would be pushing it. :)