Transparency in reporting: A journalist’s policy on legal outcomes

How public records, booking photos, and ethical standards guide updates on dismissed charges and acquittals in North Carolina

Journalism presents stories about problems, solutions, corruption, and injustice to inform the public, trusting that the public will make up their own minds about exactly what action to take. At Cops & Congress, I report the facts and provide thoughtful analysis with conservative commentary.

As an independent journalist committed to transparency and accuracy, I take seriously the ethical responsibility to report fairly on legal outcomes involving individuals I’ve covered. I've established a clear policy rooted in fairness, facts, and public accountability to address how I handle updates to stories when charges are dismissed or a person is found not guilty.

Policy Details

1. Submitting Documents for Review
   If I’ve previously reported on your arrest or legal case and the charges against you are dismissed or you are found not guilty, you are encouraged to email me all relevant court documents at CopsandCongress@gmail.com. These documents may include:

   • Dismissal orders

   • Judgments of acquittal

   • Other official case resolutions

2. Review Process
   Upon receiving your documents, I will review them thoroughly, this process may take time. Under North Carolina law, arrest records and court documents are public records, as are booking photographs. These records are subject to verification to ensure my reporting reflects the most accurate and up-to-date information.

3. Use of Booking Photos
   North Carolina law permits the publication of booking photographs as they are public records. If you are acquitted I will evaluate whether follow-up reporting or updated imagery is appropriate to provide clarity to readers.

4. Further Reporting
   Based on the findings, I may write a follow-up article or update my original reporting to provide clarity on the case’s resolution. However, I reserve the right to determine whether additional reporting is warranted.

5. No Removal of Stories
   While I strive for fairness, I will not remove published stories. As a journalist adhering to the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics, I aim to minimize harm while preserving the integrity of the public record. Published stories, including booking photos, remain part of the historical record under applicable laws.

Context about public records and booking photos in North Carolina

Under North Carolina’s public records law, information about arrests, court proceedings, and booking photographs are considered public information and can be accessed by anyone. Booking photos, often released by law enforcement, are a visual representation of an arrest but do not imply guilt or conviction.

A journalist’s role

As a one-woman newsroom, I focus on serious public safety and governance issues that affect the Lake Lure area, western NC, and beyond. While I am willing to read your emails and review your documents, I maintain my independence as a journalist. I will not be harassed, intimidated, or bullied. Reporting on your case—or updating it—will always align with ethical journalism practices and my editorial discretion.

If you have any questions about this policy or wish to provide information about a case, feel free to email me. Together, we can uphold the importance of accuracy and accountability in public reporting.

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🏛️ All those mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Learn more about this newsletter and my background. I am guided by the Society for Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. Send constructive criticism, fan mail and tips with public documents for future stories: CopsandCongress@gmail.com.