Reference no: EM132217705

In our Republic form of government, it is imperative for law enforcement officers to maintain the public trust. A large part of maintaining that trust requires police officers to do their jobs according to the rules and guidance set forth by the US Constitution. Data exists that shows police officers at times have abused their authority. Today’s media runs a 24 hour news cycle. Should the US media show video of police encounters before an investigation is complete? Clearly the public has a right to monitor their law enforcers, but should there be limits to that right? Does the media bear any responsibility for violence that breaks out after a video of an incident is shown? Post your opinion on the proper balance of the First Amendment rights of the press versus the idea that a video may not tell the whole story. Do the video releases have a public safety component to consider or is the act alone enough to ignite violence? Is there a media balance that should be considered? Are there ways to regulate this somewhat new phenomenon? Is there an ethical consideration for the media in these cases?