1. Running head: MEDIA AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM 1
Media and the Criminal Justice System
Dawn M Gibson IP2
Advanced Review- Dr. Roger Bonner
Colorado Technical University

2. MEDIA AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
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Abstract
Media coverage influences the public's perception of the criminal justice system and the policy
agendas of those within the system. This often results in changes within the operational structure
of the police, courts, and corrections centers. These changes include the firing of employees, the
initiation of internal investigations, and the privatization of services.
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3. MEDIA AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
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Media and the Criminal Justice System

4. MEDIA AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
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How is the criminal justice system portrayed in the media?
This would depend on the view point of the media doing the report. There are those who
show only the bad area of the justice system. Videos which cut out certain segments, which
portray police as being brutal, when in facts the actions of the criminals was not also shown. On
the other hand- one hand may wash another and certain situations may be covered up, by
handouts. The media is much more vast than ever before social medias, newspapers, phones,
videos, and so on. In the past, information had to be accurate, now these days they do not make
certain and rush to be the first report, which often reports inaccurate information.
What impact do the media have on a viewer's perception as to the system's efficacy in
dealing with crime?
This again depends on the one reporting, however, people research in more depth these
days. The media seems to dwell on the negative more than the positive.
Does coverage of sensationalistic and violent crime create fear among the general
public?
These days the media reports on the negative situations more than seeking a positive.
ISIS is in the news these days. The media reports on the evil and dangerous situations that occur,
making the population fear, and hate Muslims, just as they did in 9/11. The real facts are that
these are not traditional Muslims, but radical. The question is why are they doing what they do?
How do they know where to attack?
Does this fear influence criminal justice policy attitudes
Is there a correlation between gender, education, income, age, and perceived
neighborhood problems and police effectiveness in dealing with crime
References