Benetton ads spark controversy Benetton ads spark controversy _ Although you won't find Benetton in any of Durham's shopping malls, you will soon find its latest advertising campaign-which blurs the line between social activism and advertising itself-in media across the country. The company's full magazine advertisement, which depicts stories and photographs of 26 death row inmates, has drawn criticism from prison officials who claim Benetton misrepresented itself to them, victims' rights groups and advertising experts. Company representatives said the photo essay is just the latest in a series of campaigns designed to raise social awareness, but corrections officials in Missouri, Kentucky and North Carolina said lawyers for Benetton misled them when requesting access to inmates. State officials are now discussing taking legal action against the company. N.C. Correction Secretary Theodis Beck wrote a letter to Benetton Feb. 4 explaining his concerns. ...