Rule 7.  Public statements by commission.

In any case in which the subject matter becomes public, through independent sources, or upon a finding of probable cause and filing of a formal statement of charges, the commission may issue statements as it deems appropriate in order to confirm the pendency of the investigation, to clarify the procedural aspects of the disciplinary proceedings, to explain the right of the respondent to a fair hearing without prejudgment, and to state that the respondent denies the allegations. At all times, however, the commission, its counsel and staff shall refrain from any public or private discussion about the merits of any pending or impending matter, or discussion which might otherwise prejudice a respondent's reputation or rights to due process.