NCJ Number
149739
Journal
Federal Prisons Journal Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: (Winter 1994) Pages: 47-50
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
While the public is entitled to intelligence discourse on the direction corrections is taking in the U.S., and the media are the best means of providing that information, too often sensationalism, not accuracy, drives media reporting on correctional issues.
Abstract
For example, the public is aware of the rapid growth of prison, probation, and parole populations; prison overcrowding; and violence in prisons; but most people are less well informed about other correctional management issues related to inmate drug treatment programs, literacy training and education, and work programs. Corrections can help the media and the public understand its missions, problems, and accomplishments by adopting an open door policy that acknowledges the public's right to known. Open door policies can encompass facility tours by the media, open houses for the public, volunteer recruitment, establishment of community relations boards, and staff media training. Specific steps that institutions can take to build a proactive relationship with local media include identifying key reporters and news organizations, providing each reporter and organization with the name of the institution's public information officer, contacting media representatives for regular meetings, and providing items of interest to local media.