Some criticism is beginning to surface on line in the aftermath of the live shot murders of two WDBJ journalists earlier this week. Some online posters are concerned that the story is turning into one about how dangerous it is to be a journalist. Critics think this is more a story about workplace violence, personnel management, and mental illness.
Having said that – the WDBJ murders are forcing news directors to rethink the safety of news crews in the field.
Bob Jordan, who has run newsrooms from Los Angeles to Florida, posted a list on Facebook of common TV news practices he thinks should stop immediately. The first one has always been a concern of this poster: Sending a reporter to knock on the door of a suspect in a violent crime. Seems like a dumb idea right from the start.
H/T – News Blues
