NCJ Number
128625
Date Published
1990
Length
94 pages
Annotation
This study of past, present, and future issues associated with the relation between police and local news media indicates that tension and mistrust exist and that technology may create further conflict.
Abstract
Five trends were identified as important in the relation between police and local news media by the year 2000: high-speed, instantaneous mass communications such as fax, electronic mail, and teleconferencing; local government accountability; public demand for information; privacy concerns; and police efforts to enhance their image. Five events were forecasted: 25 percent of police departments become paperless; court-ordered immediate public access to all nonwithholdable information in police files; use of a secure electronic message system by dispatchers to transmit calls to field units; mass protests reminiscent of the 1960's; and computer hackers who break into police record systems and provide news media with information. Based on an analysis of these trends and events, a strategic plan was developed that uses computer software to distinguish and disperse information according to programmed releasability categories, facilitates modem access to police computer bulletin boards, conducts joint media relations training for local government officials, and conducts problem-solving meetings between public safety officials and local news media. Overall, the study emphasizes the need for utilizing technology for mutual gain by police and news media as well as understanding roles and responsibilities through training and communication. Lists of study participants, trends, and events are appended. 25 references, 10 tables, and 9 figures