Reporting that is not fact-checked to be accurate is not reporting, it's gossip. Instant coverage demands reliable information. If information cannot be verified as correct then it should not be disseminated, regardless of the expense in the 'ratings.' There are no excuses to broadcast or print inaccuracies or untruths to simply satisfy the public's hunger for instant information.

Martin J. Jacobs, JO'71, president/CEO, Lanmar Inc., Northbrook, IL

Some benefits can be seen with quickly spreading news through different media, such as the new AMBER alert system. However we cannot deny that the media has a direct impact on our opinions of matters or in the details of an investigation. We believe what our news sources sensationalize and convey to us.

Jay Montgomery, JO'93, exhibit consultant, Skyline Displays, Denver, CO

I wish the media would stick to reporting facts and spend less time speculating on the little they know. It causes more harm than good. We need a well informed public instead of a terrorized, confused public!

The Rev. Ray E. Atwood, JO'89, Archdiocese of Dubuque, Dubuque, IA

I certainly think it hurts an investigation, but it's the public demand for this type of news that has put the media in a position to release speculative information. The public wants the sensationalized coverage and they will sacrifice accuracy for immediacy.

John Hoffmann, JO'78, VP/general manager, KSNF-TV, Joplin, MO

Newsgathering agencies need to make a profit. Profitability has replaced accuracy and responsibility.

C. Lea Oltrogge, instructor, Overland Park, KS

People's right to know through the powers of the First Amendment nearly always prevails over the integrity of the investigation. It's law enforcement that must adjust/adapt to today's beyond-saturated media climate. It is an unwritten part of the job description.

John Perney, JO'94, editor/producer, MLB.com, Tuckahoe, NY

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