Here is the synopsis of our sample research paper on The Role of the Media in Crime Investigations: Information Access, Limitations and Recommendations. Have the paper e-mailed to you 24/7/365.
Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This is a 10 page paper discussing media access to information during crime investigations and the role of the media. While the media’s role is considered an important one in crime investigations, especially in the areas of mass appeals, most research has shown that the relationship between the crime investigation units and the media is one of a delicate balance. When policing units do not release information to the media, they are disregarding their responsibility to the safety of the public while at the same time leaving the media to initiate their own investigations often with unreliable information and conclusions. On the other hand, when too much information is released, the investigation can be jeopardized, or the release of sensitive information can be damaging to the victims and their families. The media sensationalizing crimes or releasing too much information has also led to accusations of copycat crimes.
Bibliography lists 6 sources.
Page Count:
10 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_TJmedcr1.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
amount of press interest ... if effectively managed, the media can make a significant contribution to investigations by acting as a conduit for information from the general public". At the
same time however, Pease adds that "the media spotlight can also place major resource demands on investigations at the critical early stage of an enquiry; and in a wider sense,
the media play an important role in shaping the publics view of crime, the police service, and the wider criminal justice system. They can drive the fear of crime." (Feist,
1999). While the medias role is considered an important one in crime investigations, especially in the areas of mass appeals, most research has shown that the relationship between the crime
investigation units and the media is one of a delicate balance. When policing units do not release information to the media, they are disregarding their responsibility to the safety of
the public while at the same time leaving the media to initiate their own investigations often with unreliable information and conclusions. On the other hand, when too much information is
released, the investigation can be jeopardized, or the release of sensitive information can be damaging to the victims and their families. The media sensationalizing crimes or releasing too much information
has also led to accusations of copycat crimes. Overall, it has been determined that the best balance of this relationship is too maintain strong ties between the criminal investigators and
the media in terms of liaison officers and released guidelines among other cooperative measures. Crime investigations units should not disregard the importance of the media in investigations, but instead embrace
the positive components of the media and value the outcome of a cooperative effort. At the same time, the media should respect the process involved within investigations and understand the
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