NCJ Number
192077
Date Published
2001
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This chapter documents the role of the media in the aftermath of a terrorist incident.
Abstract
The element of surprise and horror created by terrorism presents challenges to emergency response agencies, government officials, companies, and spokespersons. The toughest task confronting government and businesses when terrorism occurs is protecting their domain and being accountable to the public. Television is considered the most influential news medium. The most positive aspect of television is its ability to convey public information instantly through words and video. A negative aspect is the deluge of news trucks and camera crews at emergency scenes. Radio is a highly mobile medium but local news coverage has declined in recent years. Newspapers seek more detail and, as a result, are most likely to annoy officials with an onslaught of questions. Government agencies and businesses are required to punctually release information as mandated by public records laws. They should be proactive, sharing positive and negative information in a forthright manner. Spokespersons have become more prominent in recent years due to demands of media and citizens for public information and accountability. Terrorists understand that their actions are validated and magnified by media attention. Chaos can evolve when the media release conflicting information and fan premature, potentially damaging public conjecture about an incident. Reporters and editors frequently develop their own theories about the circumstances of a terrorist attack and who is responsible. This challenge is met by employing consistent, comprehensive media relations and public information policies before, during, and after terrorist attacks.