Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the Future of Policing Institute fellows are theirs and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.
Strengthening Partnerships with Traditional and Broadcast Media: Enhancing Law Enforcement Communication in the Digital Era
In an era dominated by digital platforms and social media, traditional newspapers, television, and radio remain invaluable partners for law enforcement agencies in effectively communicating critical information to the public. Law enforcement leaders must remember that public perception is built upon their public activity, and press conferences in the height of a crisis can make or break how a community thinks not just of the leaders but the department as a whole.
Newspapers dying is not good for policing
Some might argue that a dying newspaper industry is good news for law enforcement. Those people would be quite wrong. The lack of journalistic oversight means a likely increase in corruption and government waste. With no one left to monitor and scrutinize local government, politicians and city managers are free to make bad decisions with no recourse, leaving taxpayers to cover the costs.