Crime news focuses on the darker aspects of human behaviour: greed, sex, revenge and violence. It can also reflect broader social issues such as corruption, drugs and homelessness. It is important to cover crime stories well, balancing the public’s right to know with ethical considerations. This includes ensuring accuracy, fairness and sensitivity when reporting on crimes, victims, suspects or the criminal justice system.
Crime is one of the most popular subjects for journalists to report on. It is often emotive and sells papers and TV advertising. It can also help to engender public fear and anxiety about crime in society, even though official figures show reductions in crime.
Several research studies have shown a link between media portrayal of criminal activity and the level of public fear about crime. It is therefore vital that journalists do not encourage people to commit crimes by over-emphasising the threat of violence or glamourising criminals.
This is especially important when reporting on cases that involve minors and young offenders. It is also vital that journalists take care when interviewing or photographing victims of crime. It is also worth remembering that victims can be under a great deal of stress, and it is not the job of the journalist to add to this by treating them carelessly or by using excessively emotive language.
Sometimes police will ask reporters not to report on a particular case because it could compromise an ongoing investigation or put someone’s life in danger. It is always a matter for the editor of the newspaper to decide whether to comply with this request.