NCJ Number
164656
Date Published
Unknown
Length
110 pages
Annotation
This handbook describes techniques and procedures that can assist police officers in bolstering and maintaining a mutually productive relationship with the media in their community.
Abstract
The first chapter presents a view of the relationship between law enforcement and the media. It advises that if law enforcement administrators and personnel deal with the media in a fair and professional manner, they are more likely to get their own message across to the public, rather than one that is based on someone else's perceptions or viewpoints. In discussing media policy, the second chapter presents a brief historical perspective and then discusses the development of media policy, the release of information, news release guidelines in criminal cases, and model policy. A chapter on the duties, responsibilities, and authority of the Public Information Officer (PIO) is followed by a chapter that outlines the qualities of a PIO. In the chapter on "Working with the News Media," the following topics are addressed: major crimes, incidents, or disasters; news media identification; media photography; and the release of information. In considering "communicating with the media," a chapter discusses news releases, preparation of the news release (format and sample news release), news conferences, and talking with the media. A chapter on crisis communications considers the nature of a crisis and what to do before, during, and after a crisis. Remaining chapters focus on the resolution of law enforcement/media difficulties, public service announcements, legal issues, media relations training, and public relations for law enforcement.