NCJ Number
121993
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 58 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1989) Pages: 1-9
Date Published
1989
Length
9 pages
Annotation
In recent years, law enforcement professionals have worked together with television professionals to develop weekly television shows that have resulted in the apprehension of fugitives, the solution of difficult cases, and positive publicity for the law enforcement agencies involved.
Abstract
These efforts have their origins in the 1950 development of the FBI's list of its ten most wanted fugitives. During the 1960's and 1970's, crime dramas dominated television. The most recent approach involves factual reenactments of crimes. Two of the most popular shows are "America's Most Wanted" and "Unsolved Mysteries." The first show focuses on serious crimes that merit nationwide exposure and tries to reenact the crimes at their scenes. Both shows are constantly searching for new stories and use researchers to identify cases that can be developed for programming. Both programs also use call-in numbers, with trained investigators available to respond immediately to leads. The shows have resulted in capture of many fugitives. Law enforcement managers should consider several factors in deciding whether to become involved in such a program and should try to cooperate with networks in this effort. Case examples and 3 references.