How a Crime Becomes News: The Role of Media and Ethical Reporting
The decision of whether a crime makes it onto the news is not capricious but is guided by specific criteria and ethical standards. In this article, we discuss the factors that influence a crime's reporting and the ethical frameworks that shape the media's approach to crime stories.
Understanding What Makes News
News organizations, whether they be military, civilian, or commercial, follow specific guidelines to determine the eligibility of a crime for coverage. For example, the Associated Press has established a set of guidelines for ethical journalism that include a principle: ‘News is what a newspaper’s editors consider worthy of attention by its readers.#8217; This principle is supported by the Society of Professional Journalists’ ‘Best Practices,’ which also defines what is considered NEWSWORTHY.
News Criteria and Definitions
When a crime has the potential to affect the readers or viewers in a meaningful way, it qualifies as news. This can be assessed using multiple criteria, such as the crime's relevance to public safety, its impact on the community, or its significance in terms of justice and ethics. Other criteria include the uniqueness of the crime, the presence of compelling visuals such as video footage, and the potential for long-term implications.
Non-Legitimate News Sources
In contrast to legitimate news organizations, some media outlets operate with lesser ethical standards. Websites such as Fox News, OAN News, NewsMax, Breitbart, among others, may prioritize sensationalism over factual reporting. These sources often prioritize stories that align with their political or ideological leanings, which can result in the exclusion of legitimate news and the spread of misinformation.
How Crimes Become Newsworthy
What types of crimes are typically covered on television news? Crimes that qualify as newsworthy often involve serious offenses such as homicide, multiple victim crimes, or those that have a significant public impact. Even routine crimes can sometimes be featured if they provide compelling imagery, such as footage from a drunk driving crash. Video footage from such incidents can be used by news stations to inform viewers about cases that involve repeat offenders, such as those with prior DUI convictions.
Case Studies and Reporting Processes
Drunk driving incidents often feature in news reports, particularly if there are casualties or if the drivers are repeat offenders. Serial crimes, such as car tagging vandalism, serial robberies, or serial murders, also attract media attention, often following closely the criminal justice process through court proceedings.
Reporter's Perspective
A journalist's role in determining whether a crime is newsworthy is crucial. If a photographer from the news station is already at a multiple traffic crash scene, they may use the footage if the driver is charged with being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Prosecutors may also file charges such as second-degree murder if a victim is killed by a drunk driver with a previous DUI record, in which case TV stations may use footage from past or current court cases.
Conclusion
The decision to report on a crime is multifaceted, guided by ethical considerations and practical journalistic standards. Media outlets must adhere to established guidelines to ensure that news is both informative and responsible. Whether a crime makes it onto the news is determined by its potential to inform, educate, and engage the public, while maintaining the highest standards of ethical journalism.
By understanding the role of media in crime reporting, we can better appreciate the importance of accurate and ethical journalism in shaping public discourse and awareness.