Crime and Media Course Introduction PDF

Week 1: Course Introduction, Intro to Crime and Media Office hours: Fridays, 5:45 pm-6:45 pm Midterm exam: February 14 Portfolio assignment: March 14 The final exam period: April 22-26 How true are headlines and statements in the media? -​ Only 4 or 5% are violent crimes What is really the tru...

Week 1: Course Introduction, Intro to Crime and Media Office hours: Fridays, 5:45 pm-6:45 pm Midterm exam: February 14 Portfolio assignment: March 14 The final exam period: April 22-26 How true are headlines and statements in the media? -​ Only 4 or 5% are violent crimes What is really the truth? ​ Rise in the reported rate of child sexual exploitation is the largest contributor to the change in overall Crime Severity Index in 2023 ​ Robberies up from 2022, but also remain about 50% lower than 25 years earlier ​ National homicide rate declines after four consecutive annual increases Based on the data, what is the truth? Yes, there has been an increase in recent years, but the change is not unprecedented - media tends to exaggerates this increase In terms of the media’s overamplification of stranger attacks… ​ 84% percent of murders were done by someone known to the victim ​ Male victims of homicide were most likely to be killed by someone known to them ​ Female victims of homicide were most frequently killed by a current or former intimate partner, or another family member ​ Over the span of 50 years your chance of being murdered by a stranger at random is 0.000128% in Canada Why does the media over-sensationalized violent crime? “If it bleeds, it leads” ​ Violent crime stories often dominate headlines because they are dramatic and emotionally charged, ensuring they grab immediate attention ○​ Shock value: these stories evoke strong reactions, such as fear of fascination, which keep audiences engaged ○​ Emotional storytelling: dramatic visuals and narratives are used to create a connection with viewers, increasing interest and retention ​ Economic incentives ○​ Ratings and profit: sensationalized crime stories, especially violent ones, attract larger audiences, driving advertising revenue and profits  ○​ Competition: in a saturated media market, outlets rely on shocking and graphic content to outdo each other and capture viewers. Media and frequency of crime reporting In a study on media reporting on crime in Canada, 50% of media stories were about violent crimes, but violent crime only accounted for 7% of all crime (Crocker, 2012). The problem? Promotes media consumers to believe that crime (especially violent crime) is more common that it is in reality - distorted sense of urgency/fear/understanding/panic Public opinion, crime and the media When a person is misinformed about the nature of crime, and believes that violent crime is far more common than it truly is.. What implications can this have for policy makers and the criminal justice system? Public opinion, the media and punishment -​ Sensationalized reporting can contribute to moral panics, amplifying public fear and reliance on media narratives -​ Moral panics influence people to believe that “we must do something now” or else society is in grave danger -​ As a result, quick solutions unsupported by evidence are often pushed (e.g., tough on crime approaches) -​ A tough on crime approach that is rooted on “common sense” rather than scientific evidence -​ As a result, ineffective or harmful laws can be introduced and once they are enacted it is difficult to change them Curiosity about human nature Exploration of the “dark side” -​ People are inherently curious about what drives other to commit crimes, particularly violent or heinous acts -​ Crime stories provide a glimpse into the darker aspects of human behavior, which many find both shocking and intriguing Emotional engagement and storytelling -​ Sensationalized crime narratives are designed to evoke strong emotions such as fear, anger, or relief, making them captivating -​ Audiences may connect emotionally with victims or the narrative of crime resolution Morality and justice -​ Crime stories provide a way for individuals to explore questions of morality and justice -​ They often frame the narrative as a struggle between good and evil, which resonates universally -​ Crime stories often satisfy an innate desire for justice and closure, particularly when offenders are caught and punished Societal and cultural factors -​ The media has historically shaped crime narratives to attract attention and cater to societal fears or fascinations -​ Crime stories often become part of a culture’s shared memory, connecting audiences through communal experiences Historical evolution of crime in media There are over 23,000 true crime podcasts on spotify How did we get here? Is this a new phenomenon? Public spectacles of crime (Pre-media era) Public executions -​ In the pre-modern era, public executions were a key form of crime-related storytelling -​ Events like hangings or beheadings served as both punishment and moral lessons, attracting large crowds -​ Example: in Elizabethan England, executions drew hundreds of spectators, blending justice with public entertainment The printing revolution (16th - 19th century) Broadsides and pamphlets:  -​ Cheap, mass-produced broadsides (single-page publications) reported crimes and executions with sensationalized accounts to attract readers -​ Example: broadsides about the Jack the Ripper’s murders in the 19th century circulated widely, fueling public fear and fascination The rise of the printing press (early 19th century): -​ Inexpensive newspapers began covering crime stories to cater to a growing literate public -​ Example: the Illustrated Police News in Victorian England published graphic illustrations and lurid details of crimes, emphasizing shock value over accuracy ​ For the first time, crime reporting was motivated by profit. Sensationalism was used to sell broadsides and papers The golden age of broadcast media (20th century) Radio: -​ Crime reporting transitioned to radio, which brought immediacy and a sense of intimacy to crime storytelling Television news and crime dramas: -​ Television brought visual storytelling to crime reporting, allowing audiences to see crime scenes, suspects, and victims in real-time Documentaries: -​ Films like in Cold Blood (1967) introduced a hybrid of true crime reporting and dramatic storytelling, a precursor to modern true crime media The digital revolution and social media (21st century) The era of Infotainment  Week 2: Doing Media Criminology What do we mean by media? ​ Media encompasses any medium used to convey communication ​ Communication is the process of transmitting messages from one or more senders to one or more receivers Most common forms of media Print media Broadcast media Outdoor media Newspaper Television Billboards Magazines Radio Posters Books Movies Transit advertising Pamphlets or brochures Comics Digital media ​ Social media platforms ​ Websites and blogs ​ Online streaming services ​ Mobile apps ​ Video games ​ Email ​ Digital podcasts New media → relies on digital technology and the internet for creation, distribution, and interaction Different ways of defining “crime” Formal legal definition: regards crime as that activity condemned by the state and deemed deserving of punishment and control Social harm conception: encompasses criminal (e.g., assault) and civil offences (e.g., defamation, negligence causing personal injury) with the perception being that all acts resulting in harm should attract some penalty Cross-cultural universal norms perspective: crime is ubiquitous (e.g., murder, assault, child exploitation) and does ot tend to vary across cultures. Seen as universally harmful, transcending cultural, religious and geographical differences Labelling approach: crime only exists when there has been a social response to a particular activity that labels that activity as criminal (e.g. drug use, sex work, homosexuality) Human rights approach: defines crime as any act that violates fundamental human rights, regardless of whether the act is recognized as illegal under existing laws. Aligns with global human rights frameworks and emphasizes the moral responsibility of societies to address injustices. Human diversity approach: defines crime in terms of the manner in which deviance represents a normal response to oppressive or unequal circumstances, such as the attempts by dominant groups to restrict the diversity of experience, language and culture The crime-media nexus ​ The crime-media nexus refers to the interconnected and dynamic relationship between crime, its representation in media, and the broader societal responses influenced by these representations ​ The nexus highlights the feedback loop between media production, audience, consumption, and institutional responses to crime and justice Key components of the crime-media nexus 1.​ Representation of crime in media: ​ Media does not reflect crime objectivity but selects, edits, and frames certain aspects of crime ​ Disproportionate focus on sensational crimes (e.g., violent crimes) over systemic crimes (e.g., white-collar crime) ​ Use of stereotypes to represent offenders, victims, and justice institutions 2.​ Media’s role in shaping public perception ​ Crime coverage influences public fears, anxieties, and perceptions of safety (e.g., “fear of crime”) ​ Constructs “folk devils” and amplifies “moral panics” around specific groups or behaviors ​ Frames specific issues (e.g., policing effectiveness, immigration) to align with societal biases or media agendas 3.​ Public reaction and behavior ​ Media narratives shape societal attitudes toward crime and justice ​ “Copycat” crimes and moral panics can result from sensationalist reporting  ​ Public pressure based on media portrayals can influence political and legal responses to crime 4.​ Institutional responses ​ Law enforcement, courts and policymakers are influenced by media-driven public discourse ​ Media often shapes public narratives about the successor failure of criminal justice institutions ​ Policies can emerge in response to media-amplified concerns (e.g., harsher sentencing during moral panics) 5.​ Media as a reflection and shaper of cultural norms ​ Media content reflects societal values, fears, and anxieties but also actively shapes them ​ Reinforces cultural narratives about who is seen as dangerous or deserving of justice Examples of the crime-media nexus: moral panics A moral panic occurs when a societal group or behavior is perceived as a threat to societal norms and values, leading to exaggerated public fear Exaggeration Folk devils Disproportionate reactions ​ Media exaggerates the ​ The creation of ​ Public fear and outrage threat posed by a scapegoats or “enemies” far exceed the actual specific group or who are blamed for threat posed behavior, often using societal issues ​ Examples: build the sensationalist language ​ Example: migrants from wall, proposed 25% and images South America are often tariff on all goods from ​ Example: headlines blamed for rising crime Canada and Mexico, about “youth crime and unemployment tough on crime epidemics” despite responses declining crime rates Examples of the crime-media nexus: crime waves ​ A crime wave refers to a perceived or reported surge in criminal activity, often amplified by media coverage ​ While some crime waves are based on real increases in specific types of crime, many are constructed through selective reporting, sensationalism, and public anxiety The traditional “media effects” (e.g., moral panics and crime waves) perspective assumes that media always sensationalizes crime and has a direct, negative influence on people, making audiences passive and easily manipulated Issues with the media effects tradition Overestimating media power: assumes media alone has the power to shape how people think and behave without considering that people interpret media messages in different ways Underestimating audience agency: audiences aren’t passive; they actively interpret, question, and respond to media content based on their own experiences and beliefs Outdated theory: -​ Old theories like the “hypodermic syringe model” (media injects ideas directly into people’s minds) oversimplify how media works -​ Newer theories, like “uses and gratifications” focus on what people do with media rather than what media does to them Neglecting context: -​ Media effects research often overlooks the social and cultural context in which people engage with media -​ For example: people’s pre-existing views and experiences heavily influence how they interpret crime stories Complex influences: it’s nearly impossible to prove that media consumption directly causes changes in attitudes or behaviors because so many factors (like personal background and social environment) are involved Examples of the crime-media nexus: positive media ​ Positive media refers to content that informs, educates, and challenges societal norms and systemic injustices ​ Unlike sensationalist crime coverage, positive media uses thoughtful storytelling to shed light on underreported issues, encourage critical thinking, and inspire change ​ Documentaries like 13th and inside job exemplify this approach, addressing systemic injustice and economic crimes Media Criminology  ​ Media criminology is an interdisciplinary field that examines the interplay between media, crime, criminalization, and societal perceptions of justice ​ It investigates how crime is represented in various media forms, how these representations influence public opinion, and how they shape and are shaped by cultural, social, and institutional contexts Multidisciplinary nature of media criminology Criminology Media studies Journalism The study of crime, criminal Media studies explore how Focuses on gathering, verifying, behavior, law enforcement, and media operates and disseminating information justice systems to the public Aims to examine the production Aims to understand the causes, processes, content, and impact Operates within specific consequences, and societal of media content on audiences institutional and ethical responses to crime constraints Criminology Media studies Journalism Identifies patterns in crime and Analyzes how those patterns are Provides insight into production justice, offering theoretical represented and interpreted in processes frameworks media Reveals gaps between media Critiques how these gaps Explains the practical and narratives and actual crime influence public perception ethical pressures that lead to statistics these discrepancies Investigates the systemic effects Examines the feedback loop Explains how tone, language of media on justice policies and between media framing and and focus can shape perceptions societal fears public opinion of crime Practicing media criminology: Does the media play a role in causing crime? ​ There is no conclusive evidence that media directly causes criminal behavior ​ However certain media practices and representations can contribute to conditions that may indirectly influence crime Key distinction: causation vs correlation X causes Y When X occurs, Y tend to follow, suggesting Whenever you have X, you get Y some kind of relationship between the 2  variables Correlation between media exposure and criminal behavior ​ Media exaggerates certain crimes through selective reporting and sensationalism, contributing to societal fear ​ This heightened fear can lead to increased mistrust, social division, and reactive behaviors The copycat effect: ​ Sensationalized or detailed media coverage of crimes, particularly violent or high-profile acts, may inspire imitation by individuals predisposed to deviant behavior ​ Some individuals may be influenced by media depictions of criminal acts, especially when such acts are glamorized or presented in detail ​ Media representations often stereotype certain groups (e.g., racial minorities, immigrants) as inherently deviant and dangerous ​ Marginalization and social exclusion can create conditions that increase the likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior as a form of survival or resistance ​ Media often focuses on individual perpetrators while ignoring systemic issues like inequality, mental health, or lack of resources  ​ This framing may lead to reactive policies that address symptoms (e.g., punishing offenders) rather than root causes, perpetuating conditions that contribute to crime ​ Introduction to framing theory What is framing? ​ Framing is the process by which media selects, organizes and presents information to create a particular interpretation of events or issues ​ The media constructs narratives that shape public understanding of crime by: ○​ Defining who the perpetrators and victims are ○​ Highlighting the motives behind crimes and the responses by authorities ○​ Reinforcing or challenging societal norms, values, and power dynamics ​ The identities of certain individuals associated with the crime narrative are often be framed in particular ways (e.g., as victims or villains, as risk-based or vulnerable identities) ​ Frame highlight certain aspects of a story while minimizing or omitting others Key components of framing 1.​ Selection: which aspects of the story are chosen for inclusion? 2.​ Emphasis: what is highlighted as the most important? 3.​ Exclusion: what is omitted or downplayed? 4.​ Elaboration: how are the selected aspects explained and contextualized?​ Dominant media frames in attributing responsibility for crime 1.​ Faulty system -​ Diagnosis: crime stems from criminal justice leniency and inefficiency -​ Prognosis: the criminal justice system needs to ‘get tough’ (e.g. through increased number of police ‘on the street’) 2.​ Blocked opportunities -​ Diagnosis: crime stems from poverty, inequality and disadvantage -​ Prognosis: the government must address the ‘root causes’ of crime by creating jobs and reducing poverty  3.​ Social breakdown ​ Diagnosis: crime stems from family and community breakdown ​ Prognosis: citizens should band together to recreate traditional communities and social support structures for Week 3: Crime in the News Social construction theory and media frames What is social constructionism? ​ Social constructionists believe that conventional knowledge is not necessarily based on objective, unbiased observations of the world ○​ Instead meaning is created through social interactions, cultural norms, and shared understandings ​ It emphasizes that what we perceive as “truth” or “reality” is shaped by human practices, language and context rather than existing independently of human interpretation ​ An individual’s perception of “truth” is a product of socialprocesses and the interactions that an individual is engaging in rather than objective observation Can you think of an example of something that exists only because humans have collectively constructed it and assigned meaning to it (a social construct)? ​ Race, money, countries, gender Social constructionism — key principles Social constructionism in media News is not a direct reflection of the world but is a version of reality that is constructed through news values, organizational priorities, and societal expectations Framing and agenda–setting Selective coverage ​ Framing: journalists/media organization ​ Certain crimes are given priority ased on decide which aspects of a story to their alignment with news values (e.g., emphasize, shaping the audience’s severity, proximity, or sensationalism) understanding of an event ​ Minor or systemic issues (e.g., poverty, ​ Agenda–setting: media influences what white–collar crime) may be the public perceives as important by underrepresented highlighting specific issues or events Media frames ​ A media frames refers to the way a news story or issue is constructed and presented to highlight certain aspects while downplaying or omitting others ​ Frams shape how the audience interprets and understands an event or issue by emphasizing specific angles, values, or narratives ​ Examples: ○​ A crime story framed as a “failure of the justice system” emphasizes systemic problems ○​ A story about police violence framed as “a few bad actors” downplays institutional accountability Examples of social constructionism and framing Context: environmental protests, particularly those involving indigenous land deendeers, are often framed differently depending on the narrative constructed by the media ​ Protests against pipelines or resource extraction may be portrayed as disruptive or illegal by certain media outlets ​ Other outlets frame them as acts of resistance and protection of land and culture Real life example: coverage of the Wet’suwet’en protests against the coastal GasLink pipeline in 2020 varied widely, reflecting contrasting narratives of criminality vs legitimate activism Social construction and framing: Robert Pickton ​ The article constructs Pickton as the subject of sympathy and analysis while omitting the victims and their stories ​ By ignoring the vulnerable communities targeted by Pickton and the systemic failures that enabled his crimes, the article reinforces societal indifference Publication year: 2007 (both news) ​ The article focuses primarily on Pickton’s actions, responses, and demeanor during the trial ​ The narrative constructs Pickton as the sole villain ​ By ignoring law enforcement failures and societal neglect, the article ignores broader pattern if violence against marginalized communities ​ The article about the cost of prosecuting Pickton constructs a version of reality that frames the case as a financial and logistical burden Publication year: 2010 ​ Deeper issues related to justice for the victims, systemic failures, and societal accountability are absent. ​ The reality it constructs highlights institutional neglect, systemic biases, and the need for meaningful, inclusive form Publication year: 2015 ​ This article critiques the systemic failures surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) in Canada, using the shortcomings of British Columbia’s response to the Pickton case and the 2012 provincial inquiry as a backdrop Framing analysis — putting it all together Media frame analysis — purpose and approach ​ Unpack how events are framed in media ​ Understand why they are framed this way ​ Explore the potential effects (e.g., public perceptions, societal implications) Content Context Comparative approach ​ Focus on what is ​ Understand the ​ Analyze patterns across included in the news socio–political multiple news outlets or text environment infuencing over time ​ Examine placement, the media ​ Identify shifts in prioritization, and ​ Identify professional framing due to cultural language choices practices (e.g., or political changes deadlines, audience focus) shaping the story Key components of framing 1.​ Selection: which aspects of the story are chosen for inclusion? 2.​ Emphasis: what is highlighted as the most important? 3.​ Exclusion: what is omitted or downplayed? 4.​ Elaboration: how are the selected aspects explained and contextualized? Framing devices Framing devices as a focal points for media framing analyses: 1.​ Headlines​ 2.​ Subheads ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 3.​ Photos 4.​ Photo captions 5.​ Leads 6.​ Source selection 7.​ Quote selection 8.​ Pull quotes 9.​ Logos 10.​ Statistics and charts 11.​ Concluding statements and paragraphs Doing a media framing analysis 1.​ News angle: how is the story framed in the lead or introduction? 2.​ News values: what makes the story newsworthy (e.g., proximity, risk, conflict)? 3.​ Language choices: use of loaded terms (e.g., “gunned down” vs “shot”) 4.​ Sources and quotes: which voices dominate? Are some absent? 5.​ Visuals and captions: how do visuals reinforce or challenge the narrative? 6.​ Placement: front page, click–through online, or top of a broadcast? 7.​ Historical context: how has the issue been framed over time? News values, newsworthiness, and signal crimes What are news values? ​ Core principles guiding story selection: ○​ News values serve as benchmarks that journalists use to evaluate the relevance, appeal and importance of potential stories ○​ This enures they align with audience interests and media objectives ​ Implicit, not codified, practices: ○​ These principles are not formalized in rulebooks or guidelines ○​ Instead deeply ingrained in journalistic culture and learned through experience and mentorship News values in crime reporting ​ Crime stories often align with multiple news values, making them naturally appealing to audiences and a staple of media coverage ○​ Certain crimes, like high–profile homicides or cases involving children, exemplify news values ○​ Less dramatic but equally significant crimes, such as corporate fraud, may recive less attention (less emotionally significant) 12 news values 1.​ Threshold ​ A story must reach a certain level of importance or drama to be considered newsworthy ​ The ‘threshold’ of a news story will differ across local, national and international news contexts ○​ A higher threshold is usually warranted for news to reach national or global audiences ○​ Lower threshold stories are unlikely to reach national or global audience 2.​ Novelty ​ Rare, unusual, or unexpected stories attract attention ​ Examples: ○​ Mosman Bomb Hoax (2011): A fake bomb strapped to an Australian teenager became global news due to its bizarre nature. ○​ Canadian Example: The arrest of the "Yorkville Swindler" (2021), a man who defrauded women he met on dating apps, captured public interest for its novelty 3.​ Predictability ​ A crime that is predictable can be newsworthy ​ It provides news organizations with an opportunity to plan their media coverage in advance and organize their resources accordingly ​ Examples: ○​ Court trails, like Pickton’s, receive consistent coverage due to their predictability ○​ Annual crime trends, such as increased impaired driving charges during the holiday season, are often highlighted 4.​ Proximity ​ The closer a crime feels – geographically or culturally – the more newsworthy it becomes ​ Examples: ○​ 9/11 terrorist attacks: Canada’s shared border with the US and the grounding of planes in Gander, Newfoundland, created emotional and logistical proximity to this event ○​ Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka case (1990s): As a high – profile case of violent crimes committed in Ontario, this trail became a cultural reference point, shocking people across the country 5.​ Simplification ​ Complex crimes are often reduced to straightforward narratives ​ Examples: ○​ Stories like the missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) crisis are sometimes oversimplified into statistics, ignoring systemic issues like racism and colonialism ○​ Simplified narratives of “good vs evil” often frame serial killers like Robert Pickton  ​ Emphasizes cultural motives and reduces the need for explanation ​ This framing simplifies that narrative, potentially overshadowing broader issue of domestic violence ​ Constructing the crime solely as an honor killing may distance it from the broader context of violence against women, which is pervasive issue across various cultures 6.​ Individualism ​ Crime stories that focus on individual actions and reactions are often favored over those that require exploring complex social, political or cultural factors ​ Links with simplification ​ Example: ○​ Amanda Todd’s suicide received individual focus, while cyberbullying as a systemic problem was secondary 7.​ Risk ​ News media persists in presenting a picture of serious crime as random, senseless, unpredictable and indiscriminate ​ Crime is often portrayed as random and unpredictable, emphasizing fear ​ Perceived vulnerability is emphasized over actual victimization ​ Examples: ○​ Media coverage of the Highway of Tears often emphasizes danger rather than the systemic neglect that perpetuates it ○​ “Stranger danger” narratives around sexual assaults can overshadow the fact that most crimes are committed by someone known to the victim  ​ The story underscores the random nature of the event, with the innocent victim being in the “wrong place at the wrong time” ​ This framing suggests that anyone could potentially become a victim, regardless of their actions or precautions ​ Stories like this emphasize perceived risk over actual victimization rates 8.​ Sex ​ Media has the tendency to over–report crimes of a sexual nature, potentially exaggerating fears of violence against women (i.e. ‘stranger danger’) ​ Examples: ○​ The media sensationalized Amanda Knox’s trial by framing her as a ‘sinister temptress’ ○​ Cases like the Ghomeshi sexual assault trial garnered significant attention for their connection to celebrity and power dynamics 9.​ Violence or Conflict ​ Violence is one of the most common drivers of crime news, as it disrupts social order ​ Differences in opinions, perspectives and/or experiences that result in conflict and highlight opposing sides of public debate are also evident within news stories ​ Examples:  ○​ The Nova Scotia mass shooting (2020) became a defining moment in crime reporting due to its scale and violence ○​ Safe consumption site debates (advocates/mental health workers vs politicians) 10.​ Children ​ News stories about child–victims or child–perpetrators are considered very newsworthy ​ Children are seen as more vulnerable and innocent; therefore, when they are victimized or involved in crime, it is considered shocking and newsworthy ​ Example: ○​ The abduction and murder of eight-year-old Tori Stafford in Woodstock, Ontario ○​ The trial and gruesome details of the case drew intense media coverage and national attention 11.​ Celebrity or high–stats individuals ​ The level of deviance required to attract news media attention is significantly lower when a celebrity is involved than for crimes committed by ‘ordinary’ citizens ​ Examples: ○​ Amanda Bynes becoming a nail technician  ○​ Lindsay Lohan shoplifting ○​ Kim Kardashian taking the bar exam What makes celebrity news ‘newsworthy’? Why does society care about what celebrities are doing? ​ Emotional connection: celebrity news taps into universal emotions such as envy, admiration, or curiosity, making it widely relatable ​ Societal reflection: celebrity news often mirrors societal values and issues, such as the public’s obsession with wealth, success, and morality 12.​ Visual spectacle or graphic imagery ​ Powerful visuals make crime stories more compelling and newsworthy ​ They provide a sense of authenticity and immediacy in the news media coverage of crime events and allow news audiences to ‘bear witness’ to atrocities ​ Example: ○​ The video evidence in the RCMP tasering death of Robert Dziekański (2007) shocked Canadians and fueled public debate on police use of force ○​ The graphic video of George Floyd’s death, recorded by a bystander, became a globally iconic visual that starkly illustrated police brutality Signal crimes ​ Signal crimes are criminal acts that resonate far beyond the direct victims or participants, influencing societal perceptions and public discourse, and even policy responses ​ They are prime examples of how news values (like risk, violence, or proximity) work in practice to amplify certain stories Signal crimes — theoretical context Social constructionism ​ Signal crimes are not inhetently significant ​ Their importance is socially constructed through public reaction, media framing, and institutional focus Cultural resonance  ​ Crimes that align with societal fears and news values (e.g., terrorism, violence against children) are more likely to become signals Why signal crimes matter ​ Signal crimes reveal how society interprets and reacts to crime, highlighting underlying values, fears, and priorities ​ They serve as touchpoints for understanding societal vulnerabilities, media influence, and the intersection of crime, culture, and policy By studying signal crimes, we can critically assess: ​ How crimes are framed and why ​ Whose voices are amplified or silenced ​ The effectiveness (or ineffectiveness) of societal and instituional responses News sources in crime journalism Purpose of sources: ​ Sources provide credibility and legitimacy to news stories by offering information and evidence ​ Journalists use sources to maintain an image of objectivity and impartiality while staying independent from their texts Functions of sources: ​ Helps journalists avoid criticism or legal challenges (e.g., libel suits) ​ Ensures that stories meet deadlines with verified facts Hierarchy of credibility ​ People in high–status positions (e.g., government officials, law enforcement, CEOs) are often assumed to have the most accurate or legitimate information ​ Journalists tend to rely on these “credible” sources because they are perceived as reliable and well–informed ​ Those at the top of the hierarchy often act as “primary definers”, setting the terms of public discourse ​ By prioritizing elite voices, the media often reinforces existing power dynamics ​ Voices from marginalized groups or grassroots movements may challenge dominant perspectives but are rarely given equal weight ​ The public often interprets news through the lens of these high–status sources, which can shape public opinion in ways that align with elite interests  Example A high–status source framing protests as “chaotic disruptions” rather than “civil rights demonstrations” can: ​ Reinforces existing power dynamics ​ Diminishes credibility of cause ​ Influence audiences to support elite interests over humanitarian causes Example of crime news sources ​ Official records: police reports, court documents, government findings ​ Digital artefacts: social media posts, mobile videos, podcasts ​ Media archives: past news clippings, press conferences ​ Public locations: crime scenes, courtrooms, protest sites ​ People: eyewitnesses, whistleblowers, community leaders Week 4: Police, Courts and Media Law and order in changing media environment ​ The rise of digital media and 24/7 news cycle has changed how police and courts interact with the public ​ In the past, news about crime and justice was filtered through traditional media outlets (e.g., newspapers, TV and radio) ​ However, with the rapid expansion of social media, online news, and real–time updates, the way crime is reported and consumed has shifted dramatically The 24/7 news cycle and its effects on crime coverage ​ News organizations now compete to break stories as quickly as possible, often publishing information before full verification occurs ​ Because crime stories generate high public interest, media outlets prioritize sensational crime news, sometimes at the expense of accuracy ​ The demand for constant updates means that less time is available for investigative journalism, leading to an increased reliance on police press releases and official statements Example: The Nova Scotia Mass shooting (2020) ​ Initial reports relied heavily on RCMP statements, which later turned out to be incomplete or inaccurate ​ Police initially framed their response as swift and effective, but later investigations found communications breakdowns that may have contributed to more deaths  What is the lesson here? The rush to publish stories based on official sources alone can lead to a narrow or misleading narrative, with critical facts emerging much later Journalists’ increased reliance on police as primary sources ​ With shrinking newsroom budgets and fewer investigative journalists, crime reporters increasingly depend on police sources rather than conducting independent inquiries ​ Police departments now control much of the crime narrative through: ○​ Press releases that provide pre–approved police perspectives ○​ Media briefings that focus on police successes rather than broader issues ○​ Social media updates that allow police to communicate directly with the public, bypassing journalists altogether Example: Toronto Police’s use of twitter for crime updates ​ Toronto police frequently tweet crime alerts, wanted suspect images, and public safety warnings before journalists report on them ​ This direct access to the public allows police to frame issues on their own terms, making it difficult for journalists to offer critical perspectives Potential consequences? While public safety updates are valuable, they also shape public perception of crime trends, sometimes exaggerating fear of crime or justifying increased policing budgets without sufficient scrutiny How digital media has changed the court system ​ High–profile cases now unfold in real–time on social media, where public opinion often influences jury perceptions, legal arguments, and even sentencing decisions ​ Courts are struggling to regulate how media coverage affects legal proceedings, especially in cases that receive extensive online attention Example: the Paul Bernardo Parole Hearing (2023) ​ Media sensationalized Bernardo’s parole request, sparking widespread public outrage ​ While victims’ families had a right to express their views, media framing pushed a strong narrative against parole, making it politically impossible for the board to grant release  What is the lesson here? The mix of traditional and digital media coverage can create public pressure on legal institutions, sometimes limiting the ability of courts to act independently Police as the ‘primary definers’ of crime news Journalistic reliance on police as primary sources Journalists often turn to law enforcement for information because: ​ Police are authoritative and readily available sources ​ Law enforcement agencies regularly issue press releases, conduct media briefings, and provide official statements ​ Journalists often lack independent access to crime scenes or investigative findings, reinforcing reliance on police narratives Implication: Because of this, the police are often described as “primary definers” of crime news. They shape not only which crimes get reported but also how these incidents are framed in public discourse Police as primary definers of crime — setting the agenda Police decide which cases are highlighted and how they are presented ​ Example: press conferences following major crimes, where police emphasize particular suspects, motives or safety concerns ​ Media coverage often follows the police narrative rather than investigating alternative viewpoints Police as primary definers of crime — crime prevention messaging Police departments regularly release crime statistics and safety warnings to the media ​ By emphasizing certain crime trends (e.g., ‘rising car thefts” or “ a surge in gang violence”), they can influence how the public perceives safety in their community  ​ This framing can sometimes align with police priorities (justifying increased budgets, surveillance, or tougher law enforcement policies) Police as primary definers of crime — influencing public trust The way police communicate with media affects how they are perceived ​ When police control the crime narrative, they can present themselves as effective crime–fighters, reinforcing public trust ​ However, negative portrayals (e.g., police brutality cases) can challenge this authority, leading to reputational damage Police Image Work ​ Police image work is a deliberate strategy to shape public perception, ensuring law enforcement agencies are seen as competent, legitimate and necessary ​ Police agencies can also bypass traditional media by using Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to communicate directly with the public ​ Social media is also used for public engagement (e.g., recruiting new officers, crime prevention tips, and “behind-the-scenes” videos) ○​ Example: Peel Regional Police’s “good news” Twitter campaign showcases officers doing community service, reinforcing a positive image ​ Police image work is a form of strategic communication designed to: ○​ Reinforce public trust and legitimacy ○​ Control narratives around crime and policing ○​ Defend against criticism, especially in cases of misconduct or controversial incidents ○​ Promote policing successes and positive community engagement Examples of police image work on social media Pros and Cons of Police Image Work Pros Cons ​ Can strengthen public trust and legitimacy ​ Can manipulate information to shape ​ Can enhance knowledge about public public perception safety and aid in crime prevention efforts ​ Can use PR tactics to shift blame or ​ Can assist in crisis management and minimize the perception of wrongdoing prevent mass panic ​ Can create a misleading perception of ​ Can help with the recruitment and crime trends and justify aggressive retention of more diverse officers policing tactics ​ When misleading police narratives are later exposed, public trust erodes significantly Impacts of the Media on Policing Activities The media’s role in Modern Policing ​ The media serves as both a resource and a challenge for police investigations ​ While it can aid in public appeals and crime prevention, it also disrupts investigations, influences suspect behavior, and shapes public perception of police work The ‘Golden Hour’ and the loss of police control over crime scenes The golden hour refers to the short time frame immediately following a crime in which police can gather the most accurate witness testimonies and uncontaminated forensic evidence ​ Before the digital age, this window lasted hours. Police could contain the crime scene, collect statements, and issue controlled information to the media  ​ Today, this window has been reduced to mere minutes, as eyewitnesses post updates in real–time, bypassing traditional police media control Case example: The Murder of Lee Rigby (2013) The Attack (May 22, 2013): British soldier Lee Rigby was hit by a car and then brutally attacked with knives in broad daylight in Woolwich, London Crime Scene Permeability: Posting before Police Secure the Area ​ In the past, crime scenes were ‘sealed off’ by law enforcement, preventing leaks of sensitive details ​ Now, crime scenes are “digitally open” as bystanders post live content on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram Dangers of social media in crime investigations Compromised police strategies and suspect evasion ​ When police tactics or search locations leak online, suspects can change their behavior or evade capture ​ Citizens live–posting police activity can warn suspects of roadblocks, searches, or surveillance ​ Suspects can monitor digital chatter to avoid areas under investigation ○​ Example: in high–profile manhunts, police often withhold certain details to prevent suspects from knowing how close law enforcement is to finding them Dangers of social media in crime investigations Social Media “Vigilantism” & false accusations ​ Online users sometimes take investigations into their own hands, leading to harassment of innocent people ​ False leads can waste police resources or lead to mistaken identity cases ○​ Example: The Boston Marathon Bombing (2013) – Reddit users falsely accused a missing student of being the suspect, leading to harassment of his family After the suicide of 15-year-old Amanda Todd the hacker collective Anonymous publicly released the name and address of a Vancouver–area man, claiming he was responsible for harassing Todd online Problem? The public harassed the RCMP later confirmed Wasted police resources Compromised legal accused man, sending he was not involved on following lead and process him threats online, protecting the doxing him individual from vigilante violence Dangers of social media in crime investigations Public Panic and Misinformation spreading unchecked ​ Social media amplifies fear-based reporting, making crimes seem worse or more widespread than they are ​ Unverified reports of multiple shooters, bomb threats, or crime waves can cause unnecessary public panic A minor altercation between two individuals occurred on the platform of the Oxford Circus Underground station, leading to a rapid evacuation of the station, with people fleeing  People began sharing This led to widespread Several individuals Armed police units false information on fear, causing shoppers sustained injuries were dispatched to the social media, and commuters to seek during the rush to scene in response to the suggesting that shelter in nearby stores evacuate, with nine reported non–existent gunshots had been fired and buildings people requiring threat and that there was an hospital treatment active shooter Huey and Broll (2012) Findings ‘First and foremost, [the media usually present] a negative twist to the police investigation’ ‘I’ve been to scenes and known the facts of what’s going on and gone home and the news is completely off. They’re broadcasting this stuff to be real and true and people believe it “The media form their opinions, views, and values on what they want to do and sell it to make money. You know, the media will say what they want to say… sexy, flashy, glamorous – that’s what they want. High-impact stories!” When police do cooperate with the media, only to find that they have been misquoted or misrepresented in the resulting news story Just look at the newspaper. Either we’re heroes and brilliant or we’re complete idiots, and there’s very little in between ‘The media says that the husband’s our suspect, and I don’t even know if he’s our suspect’ They let out too much information that compromises investigations and techniques Competing demands What are some factors that might explain the disconnect between the police and the media? The police and the media have competing demands: ​ While the media timeframe relates to print and on–air deadlines ​ The police timeframe relates to the gathering of evidence that will lead to a conviction in court ​ The media is for–profit and wants to sell papers, clicks, views ​ The police are a public service who protect public safety and address crime Tweet Justice: Social Media and the Court ​ Court cases are now open to public scrutiny on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok, often influencing trial outcomes before a verdict is even reached ​ This phenomenon is known as “tweet justice”: the rapid spread of public opinion, misinformation, and legal debates through social media that can interfere with legal proceedings The intersection of social media and the legal system ​ Social media has fundamentally changed how court cases are reported, discussed, and even influenced ​ Traditionally, courtroom narratives were controlled by lawyers, judges, and journalists ​ Now, anyone with a smartphone can comment, analyze, or leak trial details in real-time The shift raises critical legal and ethical concerns: Live–tweeting and the courtroom ​ Live–tweetings trials provide instant updates to people who cannot attend legal proceedings in person ​ In Canada, live courtroom updates through social media, such as live–tweeting, are significant;y restricted compared to other jurisdictions like the United States and the United Kingdom ​ Journalists provide essential coverage of legal proceedings, but they must do so without live–tweeting or real-time updates Canadian courtrooms and social media What's allowed: What's prohibited: ​ Accredited journalists can report on court ​ Live–tweeting, live–blogging, and proceedings, but their updates are delayed broadcasting inside the courtroom are until they leave the courtroom generally not permitted ​ Some courts allow note–taking on laptops ​ Recording devices (audio or video) are for journalists but prohibit instant online banned, except in rare circumstances publication where a judge approves cameras for ​ In some provinces, judges can grant specific cases exceptions on a case–by–case basis for limited electronic use. Why does Canada restrict live court updates? ​ Why might some people support the use of real–time court reporting? ​ Real–time updates increase public access to courtroom proceedings, enhancing transparency and trust in the judicial process ​ Continuous public scrutiny can hold courts and participants accountable, ensuring fair practices ​ Live reporting helps educate the public on the intricacies of the legal system and how justice is administered The risks of prejudicial social media discourse While journalists (for the most part) strive for accuracy, social media users are not bound by ethical reporting standards, leading to: 1.​ Speculation and misinformation: online debates often oversimplify cases or distort facts 2.​ Public contempt for legal processes: cases involving high emotions (e.g., sexual assault trials) or high–profile people can lead to public outrage influencing courtroom discourse Oversimplified Case Example Case example: R. v. Elliott (2012) Elliott was charged with criminal harassment after engaging in contentious interactions on Twitter with feminist activist Stephanie Guthrie and others Some portrayed Elliott as a victim of censorship, emphasizing free The oversimplified narratives led to speech concerns widespread misunderstandings about the legal standards for harassment and the protections afforded to free speech in Others depicted him as a harasser, Canada focusing on the safety and rights of women online Implications: shows how social media can reduce complex legal issues into simplistic narratives, hindering informed public discourse High–profile Case Example Case example: R. v. Elliott (2012) The trial gained massive attention on platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube Memes, viral videos, and hashtags False claims about evidence and testimony like #JusticeForJohnnyDepp spread widely online dominated social media Edited clips of testimony were taken out of context to favor Depp The online environment turned the trial into a form of entertainment, undermining the seriousness of the legal proceedings The jury ruled in favor of Johnny Depp, awarding him $10 million in damages Legal concern: did online pressure influence the jury’s decision? Juror Misconduct: The Dangers of Social Media Use in Trials Jurors are instructed to base their verdicts solely on evidence presented in court, but social media allows them to: ​ Research outside information about the case ​ Read public speculation and opinions ​ Contact parties involved, violating trial integrity Example: Juror Joanne Fraill (2011, UK) ​ Frail sent Facebook messages to the accused during an ongoing trial ​ She also researched defendants online, violating court orders ​ She was sentenced to eight months in prison for contempt of court Would banning jurors from using social media be an unrealistic restriction on personal freedoms? Should jurors who break social media rules face fines or even jail time? Week 5: Victims and Offenders ​ Society often views victims and offenders as two distinct groups but in reality, these roles are more complex ​ Legal definitions of victimhood and criminality do not align with how individuals see themselves or how the media portrays them The role of media in defining Victims and Offenders ​ Journalists play a crucial role in shaping public understanding of crime ​ Media determines who is seen as a victim deserving of sympathy and who is framed as a criminal threat ​ The visibility or invisibility of victims and offenders depends on race, gender, class, and social status Who is recognized as a victim? ​ Not all victims receive equal recognition ​ Some groups are perceived as ‘deserving’ of sympathy, while others are ignored or blamed Which victims get more sympathy and coverage? ​ Gender: female victims of violent crime receive more attention than male victims ​ Race & Class: white, middle–class victims are more likely to receive sympathetic coverage ​ Lifestyle: victims involved in crime (e.g., gang violence) are less likely to be portrayed as ‘innocent’ Ideal victims vs undeserving victims Why is this? Why do some victims get more attention than others? ​ Certain victims are perceived as more deserving of sympathy based on innocence, vulnerability, and moral worthiness ​ The ideal victim is someone: ○​ Perceived as blameless ○​ Seen as vulnerable (e.g., children, elderly) ○​ Attacked by a stereotypically ‘bad’ offender ○​ Fits into an emotional and compelling narrative The hierarchy of victimization Victims are not treated equally/ There is a social ‘pecking order’ of victimhood in media representation Example: media framing of victims and offenders The kids are all white The media and minority representations: ​ News producers inflate the dramatic elements of stories they perceive as “newsworthy” ​ News headlines are usually provoke reaction by showcasing issues that anger, sadden, and/or frighten the public ​ The poor are often less likely to be portrayed sympathetically in the media, this is even more true for those who are poor and racialized ​ Media analyses of drug crises distort the issue by valorizing or demonizing certain actors ​ White, middle–class: portrayed as “innocent” victims ​ Minority, low–income: addicts, violent, ruthless drug dealers What happens? ​ Perpetuate and strengthen negative stereotypes and discourses about people of color and the poor ​ Distract public attention away from the causes of drug addiction or other social problems Media representations of opioid deaths among Media representations of opioid deaths among White victims: non–White victims: “Good kids from a good family” ​ Deaths of non-White victims don’t receive media coverage “It can happen to any family, is the now familiar ​ Instead, foreign drug refrain from parents who have lost their children manufacturers/dealers are demonized due to the killer Fentanyl” “Charismatic basketball player” “Had a bright future…taken away before his and his parents’ eyes” Victims and policy change ​ The identity of a victim (race, gender, age, social status, and public perception) often influences how much media attention a case receives ​ Cases that receive a lot of attention are more likely to spark change in laws/policies  ○​ Ideal victims (e.g., young, white, middle–class women or children) are more likely yo receive sustained media coverage, public sympathy, and political pressure for change ○​ Victims from marginalized groups (e.g., Indigenous women, sex workers, homeless individuals, and men) often receive little media attention, making it harder to generate public outrage or legislative action Example: ideal victims and policy change ​ Who: Rehateh Parsons, a 17–year old from Nova Scotia ​ What: sexually assaulted by a group of men, her assault was videotaped, followed by severe cyberbullying. She later committed suicide ​ Media attention: national outcry over how authorities handled the case ​ Policy impact: led to new cyberbullying legislation in Nova Scotia Rehtaeh was young and white from a middle–class family (ideal victim) Media coverage and public pressure led to legal reforms Comparison: highway of tears – 18 Indigenous women went missing before RCMP launched project E–PANA Media vs statistical representations of victims ​ The media does not always reflect crime statistics accurately ​ Example: ○​ “Indigenous women and girls are 12 times more likely to be murdered or go missing than other demographic groups, and 16 times more than white women” (Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, 2024). ○​ Indigenous women receive disproportionately less media coverage than non–Indigenous women. When covered, the narratives often adopt a negative tone, frequently framing Indigenous women as engaging in “high–risk” lifestyles (Corbett, 2019) This is known as Missing White Woman Syndrome (MWWS) Case study: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women coverage Gilchrist (2010) analyzed press coverage of missing and murdered Indigenous vs White women in Canada Quantity of coverage: Quality of Coverage: Headline disparities: ​ White women received ​ White women’s stories ​ Headlines for white up to 4x more media included personal details women often included coverage than (e.g., hobbies, their names and Indigenous women personalities, life goals) emotional appeals (e.g., ​ Articles about missing ​ Indigenous women’s “Jenny We Love You)  White women were coverage was brief and ​ Headlines for significantly longer than lacked personal Indigenous women were those about Indigenous elements, appeared more impersonal (e.g., women more anonymous “Teen’s Family Keeping Virgil”) The Labelling Process: ‘Victims’ and ‘ Offenders’ ​ The media and society construct the categories of ‘victim’ and ‘offender’, shaping how individuals are perceived ​ Who is labeled as a victim, or an offender depends on: ○​ News framing & media narratives ○​ Cultural norms & stereotypes ○​ Social divisions (race, gender, class) ○​ Historical & political context ​ Labels like ‘victim’ and ‘offender’ are often rigid and binary, failing to capture the complexity of individuals’ experiences The fluidity of victim and offender labels Certain individuals do not fit neatly into one category and may simultaneously be both victims and offenders in different contexts Example: Women who kill abusive partners ​ A woman subjected to intimate partner violence for years may kill her abuser in self–defense ​ Legally, she becomes the offender (charged with murder or manslaughter) ​ Socially, she may be seen as a victim of systemic failure Her label: survivor seeking justice or criminal who took the law into her own hands Sometimes, individuals convicted as offenders are later proven to have been wrongfully accused, shifting their label from ‘criminal’ to ‘victim’ Example: Central Park Five case ​ Five Black and Latino teenagers were convicted of the rape and assault of a jogger in 1989 in New York ​ The media and legal system labeled them as dangerous criminals ​ Years later, DNA evidence proved their innocence, and they were exonerated Their label: changed from “offenders” to “victims” of wrongful conviction/a prejudicial system The fluidity of victim and offender labels, cont’d The victim–to–offender cycle: sometimes, those who experienced victimization later become the victimizer Example: offenders who were once victims ​ Individuals who experience violence, neglect, or abuse as children are more likely to become involved in criminal activities ​ Many incarcerated individuals were once victims of abuse, systemic neglect, or poverty, but once they commit crimes, society labels them only as ‘offenders’ and ignores their victimhood Their label: the label of ‘offender’ tends to override recognition of their experiences as a ‘victim’ Sometimes people can unknowingly or unwillingly transfer from ‘victim’ to ‘offender’ Example: Peter Kleinig (Online fraud victim turned offender) ​ Kleinig was a victim of an online investment scam ​ Instead of recognizing the fraud, he began recruiting others into the scheme, believing it to be legitimate ​ Even after authorities warned him about the scam, he continued to promote it Their label: he shifted from being a ‘victim’ or fraud to an active ‘offender’ in defrauding others The problem with the victim–offender dichotomy ​ The media often fails to recognize the complexity of these cases, treating victims and offenders as opposites rather than acknowledging how individuals can shift between these categories ​ Issues: ○​ Once labeled as an offender, a person’s past victimization is often ignored ○​ Once labeled as a victim, a person’s own wrongdoing may be excused or overlooked ○​ Media and legal narratives tend to focus on ‘ideal’ victims and ‘ideal’ criminals, ignoring cases where individuals exist in both spaces Example: ​ Sex workers who experience violence (assault, robbery, or trafficking) are often not recognized as victims because of their criminalized work ○​ Society struggles with whether to see them as offenders (for engaging in sex work) or victims (of violence and exploitation) ○​ Many activists argue for decriminalization, emphasizing that sex workers should be seen as people needing protection, not punishment The stigma of labels How can being labeled a ‘victim’ stigmatize an individual? While being recognized as a victim can bring legal protection, social support, and media attention, the term is also loaded with negative connotations, such as: ​ Weakness – victims are often portrayed as powerless, unable to defend themselves ​ Passivity – the idea that victims are acted upon, rather than having agency ​ Permanence – a belief that once victimized, a person is forever defined by that experience Why some people reject the ‘victim’ label Survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault may reject the victim label because it implies they are helpless ​ Some prefer terms like ‘survivor’ because it suggests resilience, strength, and agency rather than a state of perpetual suffering ​ Feminist movements have pushed for the term ‘survivor’ in discussions of sexual violence, emphasizing recovery and empowerment Media Representation of Incarcerated Women Reading: Pedler, Arai & Yuen (2010) ​ Examined how media representations shaped public perceptions of federally sentenced women in Canada ​ Analyzed the impact of media coverage on the rehabilitation, reintegration, and social inclusion of incarcerated women ​ Used the case of “Spa Day” at Grand Valley institution to explore societal reactions to prison rehabilitation initiatives What were some of the findings on how incarcerated women were framed by the media? ​ The media portrayed incarcerated women as either “bad” (violent, dangerous) or “mad” (mentally unstable, deviant) ​ National newspapers focused on sensationalized depictions, linking the event to high–profile female offenders rather than rehabilitation ​ Community–based models like Grand Valley institution sought to create supportive environments, but public backlash framed them as overly lenient (“Club Fed” narrative) ​ The study argues that visibility, even through controversy, can create space for dialogue on humanizing incarcerated women Media representations of female offenders in Canadian Newspaper (Collins, 2014) Research: how do Canadian Newspapers portray incarcerated women? Two extreme archetypes Less rational/more Gender norms challenged emotionally driven Sexualized “bad girls” – Female offenders were often depicted as seductive, Compared to male offenders, perceived as violating traditional manipulative, and cunning female criminals were less likely femininity to have their crimes excused or “Black widows” – portrayed as contextualized This intensified media scrutiny cold, calculating, and ruthless and negative portrayals Example: mental illness, emotional, ‘hysterical’, external pressures Media Consequences Victims rights on paper ​ Victim rights initiatives focus on ensuring fair treatment, protection, and access to support services for those affected by crime ​ Rights typically include: ○​ Respect and compassion – victims should be treated with dignity ○​ Access to services – counseling, legal assistance, and health services ○​ Information and updates – on investigations and legal proceedings ○​ Protection from offenders – privacy rights and safety concerns Victims Rights in Practice Canadian Victims Bill of Rights (2015) ​ Victims have the right to privacy when dealing with the justice system ​ Victims can ask to keep their identity hidden during legal proceedings How might the media interfere with a victim’s privacy rights? ​ High–profile cases often lead to unwanted public exposure, with journalists revealing personal details without consent ​ Despite legal protections, victims’ names, images, and personal histories are often leaked, especially in sensational cases Media demonization: The Monster Offender The media often portrays certain offenders as irredeemable “monsters”, turning them into symbols of public fear and moral panic ​ Some criminal cases receive extensive, sensationalist media coverage, portraying offenders as inhumans, beyond redemption, and inherently evil  ​ These portrayals often fuel public outrage, demand harsher sentences, and lead to long–term stigma, even when the offender has served their time Can you think of a person who has been portrayed as an irredeemable monster by the media? Vince Li (2008) – the ‘Greyhound Bus Killer’ and public fear of mental illness ​ In 2008, Vince Li (now known as Will Baker) killed and cannibalized a man on a Greyhound bus in Manitoba ​ The attack was highly publicized, headlines emphasized its gruesome nature ​ At trial, he was found NCRMD due to schizophrenia leading to outrage when he was later released under supervised conditions ​ Despite mental health experts affirming he is no longer a risk, media coverage continues to frame him as dangerous, fueling stigma against people with schizophrenia The consequences of Demonizing offenders What are some potential consequences of portraying offenders as irredeemable “monsters’ in the media? ​ Offenders released from prison or psychiatric care face ongoing threats, stigma, and community backlash ​ The justice system is meant to rehabilitate, but media–driven outrage often pressures lawmakers into harsher punishments ​ Focusing on individual “monsters” ignores larger societal issues ​ Public pressure for swift justice can result in false accusations or wrongful convictions (e.g., David Milgaard) Misinformation and Mistaken Identities in Crime Reporting ​ Media reporting and social media speculation can wrongly label individuals as criminals, sometimes without any legal evidence or due process ​ These errors can have devastating consequences, including public shaming, reputational damage, and even threats to safety Social media and false accusations ​ In the digital age, public speculation can assign guilt before any legal judgment is made ​ Individuals may become suspects simply due to public perception, rather than evidence  Sunil Tripathi (Boston Marathon Bombings, 2013) ​ A missing Brown University student was falsely accused online of being a bombing suspect ​ Reddit, 4chan, and Twitter spread misinformation before law enforcement confirmed the real suspects ​ Tripathi was later found dead from suicide, and his family suffered intense trauma from the false accusations Media Framing and “Trial by Media” Trial by media occurs when news outlets or social media platforms act as a court of public opinion, labeling the person the ‘offender’ before any legal ruling Example: Vanessa Robinson (Australia, 2010): ​ Lost her two children due to carbon monoxide poisoning but was wrongly accused of murder in early media reports ​ Police used “police speak” language, leading the public to assume she was a suspect ​ News stories speculated about family tensions, reinforcing a false narrative of guilt ​ She struggled to reintegrate into her community, despite being completely innocent The ethics of crime reporting The 2023 Ethics Guidelines from the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) outline ethical principles for journalists: ​ Accuracy – journalists must verify sources, fact–check, and correct mistakes transparently ​ Fairness – avoid stereotypes, respect privacy, and consider the impact of coverage ​ Independence – journalism should be free from political, financial, or corporate influence ​ Transparency – journalists should be open about sourcing, affiliations, and corrections ​ Diversity – should represent a variety of voices, including marginalized communities ​ Accountability – media organizations must take responsibility for misinformation and bias