NCJ Number
210113
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 67 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2005 Pages: 74-76
Date Published
June 2005
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the experiences and lessons learned by the Communications Office of Florida's Department of Corrections.
Abstract
The Communications Office must deal with the media when negative events occur in the corrections context. This is best done by attempting to make a negative event a 1-day story by immediately providing all the information possible. If the full range of information is released to the media, then reporters will generally not keep coming back for follow-up over an extended period. One of the most significant challenges for the Communications Office stems from the supervision of offenders on probation or parole in the community. Crimes committed by probationers and parolees are particularly difficult to address because correctional authorities are inevitably blamed for not keeping tighter supervision on dangerous offenders. When such incidents happen, remedial action must be taken and reported, even if it means the termination of a long-term employee. Although negative publicity can damage the corrections enterprise in the public's eyes and consequently bring criticism from politicians, positive outcomes can result from negative publicity, as it can prompt needed reforms and increased allocations for corrections programs. An ongoing task of the Communications Office is to mold public opinion and the public image of corrections professionals and their commitment to the community's safety. An agency's successes and employees' community contributions should be continually highlighted to show that corrections efforts are built on a positive foundation.