Host Gone Wild!!!

Scott Cox is all about the outrageous.

From the things he says to, well, the things he says.

I usually flip him on for a couple minutes on my drive home after the No Bull Morning Show to hear him launch into an attack on something he heard, saw or read. It doesn't last very long these days, due to the new format at the radio station, but it's good for an occasional laugh, chuckle or shake of the head.

Anyone who listens to Cox knows that he deals in sensationalistic, shock value entertainment.

That said, I'm finding it hard to believe this entire political sign stealing stunt, from the first theft to the indefinite suspension, wasn't a giant ratings hoax.

And Cox is sitting back right now having a great big laugh.

Let's recap for a moment.

The talk show host comes up with a scheme to pilfer a dozen or more political signs belonging to KHSD trustee Chad Vegas (a regular on his co-hort's talk show) with the idea of breaking the news of the theft later in the week.

Then, he announces next week that he secured the return of the signs.

Only someone sees him taking one and writes down his license plate number.

It finds it's way to Mr. Vegas who turns it over to the Sheriff's Department.

As the plan starts to unravel, Cox comes clean (after denying the theft to numerous media outlets and station management).

A big press conference, involving Cox and the trustee candidate running for re-election, is held to capture the admission of guilt and apology.

Cox is going to put them all back where he got them, and though Vegas seems slightly annoyed, he seems content to absorb the media spotlight that this stunt has provided for him.

But the Sheriff's Dept. has one of their investigators looking into it, even after the truth came out.

It's gone beyond no harm, no foul. The Sheriff's Dept. says it's a misdemeanor that carries possible jail time and a fine.

Not that Scott will ever see the inside of a cell.

Then, just before the 6pm news, ABC23 is notified that Cox has been suspended indefinitely.

Strange timing, almost to ensure the *breaking news* reference.

And, the radio stations are in the heart of their ratings book.

Add it all up and you've either got a big-time blunder or a carefully orchestrated ratings ploy.

Given the suspension and subsequent Sheriff's investigation, the major gaffe is probably the likely answer, but I can't help but think we're all being taken for a ride.

Like the one Cox provides on his radio show.

Only time will tell which version is the truth.

And I hope, Cox is still able to laugh about it.