Im a junior reporter and have to call an inspector to get some info about an incident. Does she have to talk to me, or does she have every right to fob me off?
Some advice on the best way to handle this please!
2006-06-20 06:39:11 · 6 answers · asked by lovethesun 3 in News & Events ➔ Media & Journalism
In my personal opinion no. I'm not saying this because your a reporter but information should only be passed on with peoples expressed consent. For example you wouldn't like all your dirty laundry splashed all over the news papers and tv.
If there is consent then thats ok or if its looking for help from the public then thats ok.
I guess its as the others have said it depends on the case but at the end of the day its not the polices job to Broad cast there cases but to make sure our streets and people are safe.
2006-06-20 08:54:06 · answer #1 · answered by hazel1558 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They can tell you to get stuffed or put you through to their media spokesperson. However depending on what the incident is, they may decide it would be good PR to talk to you. The police want to get a positive message out there and to keep the media ( and particular groups eg young people, people from ethinc minorities etc) on side.
If you are asking about something that is non damaging and you will do the story with or without their cooperation it might be in their best interests to talk to you rather than letting you come to your own conclusions.
Remember it is in the Public interest to be informed and they are public servants who have had bad press recently and some positive interest by the media should be encouraged by them
2006-06-20 06:55:42 · answer #2 · answered by sally T 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The general legal rule is that they are not allowed to divulge information on open cases, except for photofits and during appeals for information. Other than that, it is usually up to the head of the investigating team. They also have to follow guidelines regarding the release of suspect names, particularly if the suspect is a juvenile, and witness protection guidelines, such as not revealing if a witness has hidden or not showing their face on TV interviews. Usually the press dealings are handled by Press officers or liason officers at press conferences.
2006-06-24 14:05:06 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what infoirmation you are seeking. If it is an open investigation, the police can withhold information so as to not interfere with their investigation. Most states have "sunshine laws" or open record laws that allows access to public records. The request usually has to be in writing and specidy what you want to know - i.e. - copy of the accident report, arrest record etc.
2006-06-20 06:47:39 · answer #4 · answered by Coach D. 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think they have every right to fob you off, but it is in there interest to give updates where it won't cause harm to a case for pr purposes.
2006-06-21 09:41:50 · answer #5 · answered by jimbo_thedude 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
depends on the situation if it will afect the case they are working on etc . if they have information they will give it to you
2006-06-20 06:44:58 · answer #6 · answered by Kelly 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋