Thoughts on the readings

While it is important in any news story, I think it is even more true with crime coverage:

Accuracy is key.

In sensitive cases like this, gathering information correctly and in a timely fashion is so important. Crime stories are normally breaking news. They get posted online as soon after the event as possible. The room for error in these situations is large. Especially because information in crime cases is sometimes hard to come by and takes a lot of prodding. The room for libel is much larger.

On a side note - I don't think i ever realized just how much crime stories can hook the reader into a story. They're sensational without us having to do any work. They have drama, heroics, good vs. evil. It's great stuff.

I like the fact that the book says it is important to try to reach the friends and relatives of the victims. While in many cases the issue is sensitive, information from these individuals adds depth and accuracy to a story.