If the media hadn't been there would they have even attempted the trampoline?

Standard capture method (without the tramp). Especially in an urban area when they can't risk letting the bear down on his own and getting away.

I have been present at a number of captures and all the bears and cougars I have seen hit the ground hard but were ok. The drugs completely relax whatever is hit. Kinda like a drunk guy falling, less likely to get hurt then somebody sober and tensed up.

My girlfriend thought it was cruel when she first saw it but she had a half grin after I made her watch it again.