New police radio systems could cut out reporters: some law enforcement jurisdictions limit media access with scrambled transmissions

Article Abstract:

Police departments in a number of cities are implementing new systems that can limit media access to radio transmissions by scrambling signals, and some media organizations are concerned about the power this trend gives to the police. Most departments are allowing media to buy units that decipher the signals, but smaller press agencies may not be able to afford the units, which cost between $1,500 and $3,000. Access is also being denied to administrative and tactical transmissions. Cities implementing these systems include Reno, Miami, Denver, St. Louis and Kansas City, MO.

Police, Police officers, Freedom of the press, Police communication systems, Police communications systems, states

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Rule restricts reporters ability to interview, quote soldiers

Article Abstract:

The US Department of Defense has announced a policy that would limit reporting of comments made by soldiers to embedded journalists. Journalists staying with a particular military unit for more than 24 hours must ask permission before they use a quotation attributed to a particular soldier, unless the quotation is the result of a one-on-one conversation. Soldiers were opposed to speaking on the record for 24 hours per day. Journalists suggest that the policy is a response to an article by Thomas Ricks that reported controversial comments made by a colonel in Bosnia.

Military personnel, Journalism, Military, Military journalism

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Agents' claims against Waco media allowed: ATF officers allege reporters' negligence led to deadly disaster

Article Abstract:

US District Judge Walter Smith ruled in April 1996 that federal agents involved in the 1993 Branch Davidian assault may proceed to trial to prove their contention that local news media caused the tragedy. The judge sharply rebuked KWTX-TV cameraman James Peeler, whose encounter with a Branch Davidian member may have tipped off the group, and reporters for KWTX-TV and the Waco Tribune-Herald for failing to conceal their presence on the morning of the assault in the unfrequented rural area near the compound.

Cases, Investigations, Branch Davidians, Government and the press, Press policy, United States. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

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