BOISE, Idaho — Effective immediately, KTVB will no longer include a suspect's mugshot in certain online and on-air news coverage.
Conversations surrounding media ethics and journalism best practices have been unfolding across the country, including at Idaho's News Channel 7.
Previously, it was standard procedure to always include a suspect's mugshot in any crime story. However, multiple discussions within the company have led KTVB to update the mugshot policy.
Mugshots are often taken at what could be considered the lowest moment in a person's life and are not reflective of the person as a whole. Once online, the story and mugshot live on forever, even if the case is dismissed or the person is acquitted.
In these instances, using a mugshot arguably does more harm than good.
Mulitple large news organizations have also moved away from using mugshots in minor crime stories, such as The Associated Press.
There are several instances in which KTVB will opt to use a suspect's mugshot, including but not limited to:
- An immediate threat to public safety
- A closed case or prior conviction
- A case involving a public figure or elected official
- A case KTVB will follow from start to finish
If you have feedback, you can e-mail us or send us a text message at (208) 321-5614.