News Media's Coverage of Crime and Victimization (From National Victim Assistance Academy, P 18.1 - 18.25, 2000, Anne Seymour, Jane Sigmon, eds. et al., -- See NCJ 184052)

• NCJ Number: 184075
• Author(s): Anne Seymour
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 25 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Office for Victims of Crime (OVC)
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; OVC Resource Ctr
• Publication Series: OVC Others
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter discusses the news media’s coverage of crime and victimization.

Abstract

The news media, in their coverage of crime and victimization, must consider both the public’s right to know and victims’ right to privacy. Victim service providers play crucial roles in protecting victims’ privacy rights and helping victims cope with media coverage immediately following a crime, during the trial and following the verdict. The chapter discusses the impact of news reporting on crime; the impact of the news media on criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim services policies and practices; advocating for victims in high-profile cases; First Amendment issues and precedents relevant to victim privacy; major concerns of victims and service providers when dealing with the media; guidelines for victims who choose to deal with the media; the role and responsibilities of the victim advocate in helping victims deal with the news media; significant issues for the media and the courts; and the media perspective of crime and victimization. References