Crime reporting can shape how a community understands itself and how others perceive that community. When done well, it informs, holds power to account and centers those most affected by the criminal justice system. When done poorly, it amplifies fear, perpetuates stereotypes and can haunt victims, suspects and families for years to come. 

This guide is written for journalists who want to do this work in a responsible and informed manner, following best practices developed by longtime criminal justice reporters and editors, criminologists, non-profits, journalism schools and others. It is aimed primarily at reporters regularly covering criminal justice, but the advice applies to anyone who covers crime even occasionally or during a breaking news event.