Actions Off-Duty. Journalists may be held to account for the actions they take ‘off-duty’ just as if they were taken ‘on-duty’ whensoever those actions impugn their character or impact the company. Journalists may be held to account for anything they say or do, specifically including social media, and may be subject to disciplinary measures. It is the position of the company that any and all actions journalists may take that impact the company may be dealt with regardless.
Alcohol and Drugs. We acknowledge that journalism has traditionally involved the free flow of alcohol, often on backroom tables in darkened restaurants and pubs; however, in the modern era, taking information from drunk persons, drunk driving, the use of elicit drugs and other acts of this nature are unlawful, contrary to the moral fibre of society and they bring serious liability. Signal High is of the view that journalists must conduct themselves in accordance with law. Meeting for coffee can be just as productive as meeting for drinks, and the gifting of meals is much more appropriate than a bottle of wine or liquor. Many people in today’s society simply don’t drink or use drugs, and this has to be respected. There are some faiths that preclude people from consuming alcohol altogether. This being said, journalists are free to lawfully consume provided they are of sound mind and body when executing their function. If you feel that you have to consume alcohol or other intoxicants in order to perform, please reach out to human resources.
Anonymity and Protected Sources. News is best made with identified sources; however, this is not always possible. We will accept reports from unidentified persons provided we are able, to some extent, to verify the information. Editors play a key role in the acceptance of anonymous sources. Editors have every right and obligation to have the source identified to them, and to number and index the source. In no way, shape or form will the company ever identify an anonymous source. This is where your promise as a journalist comes into play. Sources must be credible, without an axe to grind. They must possess first-hand knowledge of an incident or personal knowledge of a particular topic. Editors must test for this in their process. Anonymous sources may be identified by a pseudo-name, set of initials or code. Editors shall ensure that sources are entered into the database of sources.
Anonymity of Justice. Signal High is strictly opposed to anonymity in justice, except in very few limited circumstances. We will identify, investigate and report on the performance and history of any party to any matter in the domain of our systems of justice, including those who work within that system. This means that we will not shy away from exposing prosecutors, judges, lawyers, clerks and other court staff, inspectors, witnesses and every other person actively involved in the matter, not solely the accused. We are of the view that performing our duty far enough in advance of a trial does not jeopardize fairness, it ensures transparency. We believe it entirely appropriate to conceal, initialize or pseudo names attached to a particular matter when the rights of one outweigh the public interest.
Arrest and Detention. This is where having in-depth knowledge of the laws of jurisdiction becomes very, very important. Generally speaking, detention is merely an opportunity for you to talk yourself into an arrest, and arrest often means that you will spend the night in jail, and be released without charge. Regardless, the objective is to get you out of police custody as quickly as possible, without charge. What you do from this point is entirely up to you. Signal High is of the view that you should consider the following actions. Do not resist. Stop talking. Try not to touch anything, e.g. walls, bars, cups, etc. Continue recording and try to get as much information as possible, on the record. Give your name and identify as a journalist gathering content for a story. When you are able, call the newsroom and give details to the operator. The operator will initiate our emergency protocol. Being detained or arrested can be a very violent and painful experience. Demand to see a doctor if need be. If you are not in your home country, demand that your embassy be informed. Never consent to search or seizure. Demand that your equipment, and in particular memory cards, be sealed in plastic bags in front of you. Do not answer questions, this is vitally important. The best thing to do at this point is sit back and begin to formulate the article you are going to write that will end the careers of the officers imprisoning you. If you see or hear that another journalist has been detained or arrested, contact the newsroom. Begin collecting material and report on the incident immediately. Press hard for the truth. Protect each other.
Attribution and Plagairism. Under no circumstance will we ever represent someone else’s work as our own. This includes not only finished content but also particular words, phrases, images, sounds, music, etc. In all cases, we attribute and credit content and material to its source, as directed by the source. Failure in any way to properly credit material brings the company into disrepute and potentially exposes us to legal peril. It is imperative that journalists and editors have firm knowledge of copyright, media inclusion and other pertinent law, and follow same throughout. Editors are specifically responsible to ensure that our content is unique, home-made, by right or under license.
Authorities. Successful journalists develop a set of attitudes and demeanors that work for them. For example, some journalists treat police officers with the glowing respect they believe they deserve, while others are rude and pushy and give little respect whatsoever. Signal High is not interested in the feelings of authorities and does not impose a certain degree of courtesy on journalists except basic courtesy as a start. It is not the prerogative of management to dictate how journalists interact with authorities, except as required by law and with the understanding that there may be personal consequences. Should, for example, a police officer complain that a journalist was rude when inquiring about a particular matter, the complaint will likely be disregarded and the officer reminded that police tend to be rude, aggressive thugs. This standard does not apply to witnesses or innocents. For example, should the victim of police brutality complain that a journalist was rude and far too pushy, the actions of that journalist may be investigated. Not all authorities are the enemy, but we can’t tell which ones are and which ones aren’t by their uniform.
Breaking the Law. Journalists are obliged to comply with the laws of the jurisdiction they are in; however, we acknowledge that there are times where laws must be bent or broken in order to gather necessary content for an assignment of the highest public interest. Signal High may entirely or to an extent indemnify journalists who are successfully prosecuted and convicted of one or more offenses in this pursuit. These are normally minor offenses such as trespass, eavesdropping, loitering, jaywalking, obstructing, but can be more serious offenses as well. Journalists are required to address the potential of these offenses being committed with chief general counsel and an executive officer prior to the act or, where the act is exigent, immediately thereafter. The notion that content discovered during the commission of an offense cannot be published is untrue and foolish. The acts of the person do not invalidate the content. Sometimes, journalists have to be downright sneaky to gather content, and the subjects of our investigations draw that out by their own conduct. Only an executive officer, in consultation with the chief general counsel, may authorize the use of confidential documents or material that was obtained unlawfully. Same applies to privileged documents, etc.
Changes to Policy. These policies can change any time. Journalists are strongly encouraged to review them frequently to ensure understanding. The company is not obliged to notify any person on change. Dialog is very important. We are all in this together and discussion between colleagues is paramount. Questions and comments that cannot be resolved with senior staff should be addressed to an executive officer. These policies are on authority of the executive officers.
Child Protection Cases. It is the view of Signal High that child protection agencies are often part of the problem and not the solution; accordingly, they should not be spared investigation or publication to any extent. Some jurisdictions impose an automatic ban on the identification of subjects in child protection matters. This does not mean that we cannot investigate cases and report on them, only that we cannot report any facts that would likely lead to the identification of children. The use of initial names, pseudonyms and other methods is perfectly acceptable here to protect the true identity of children. Child protection workers, by whatever title, should be thoroughly investigated and specifically named and published just as we would with police officers. Child protection workers and agencies are not normally protected, nor are particular incidents or case reports. Watch for publication bans.
Common Sense. At all times, in all matters, journalists are expected to use common sense, to use the lowest amount of intrusion and conflict necessary to carry out their duties. Journalists are expected to consult with their editors whensoever they have a conflict, and whensoever they need guidance as to how to proceed with a particular situation. Journalists are expected to act to the benefit and in the favor of the company at all times, regardless, and will be held to account for decisions that are patently poorly chosen. It is the role of all senior staff and management to guide each other based on the moral compass that has been set by these policies. While common sense cannot be taught, legislated or made into policy, journalists engaged with Signal High are required to be thoughtful and considerate at all times, and to make the correct decisions in matters that others would deem common sense.
Content Deals. Signal High is generally opposed to making a deal before an interview to stay away from certain topics; however, it is sometimes necessary. When faced with a long list of terms it is sometimes better not to conduct the interview, but rather report on the conditions proposed in order to interview. Whensoever we make a deal not to touch on particular issues, we have to be good to our word and not touch on those issues. It is important to note that, unless it is specified, reading off the conditions of the interview at the end, or reporting that a deal was made, just to report that we stuck by our word is perfectly acceptable when being stonewalled, for example “OK we made an agreement not to raise your pay increase, departmental suicide and corruption, and we didn’t,” or “just so the people at home know, in order to get the chief of police to testify we had to promise not to bring up his criminal charges, drunk driving trial or smuggling offenses.” Deals and how they are to be handled must be approved by editors before hand.
Court Service. Proper service should always be made at a physical, public office; however, journalists may be given service on behalf of Signal High. Journalists should direct the serving party to the closest physical office, or to our headquarters. Should service be made to a journalist directly, the material must be transmitted to the chief general counsel and editor-in-chief without delay. Journalists are to notify the newsroom immediately should they be served, regardless.
Courtesy, Salutation. Each Signal High journalist will develop and adapt his or her own style of dealing with subjects. Signal High is of the view that courtesy should be given to everyone at the onset of any encounter. This may include proper salutations, smiles, handshakes, welcoming messages, etc; however, when subjects become evasive, gruff or otherwise discourteous, each journalist may take the approach he or she wishes to extract information. This may include replacing rank with first name, interjecting and overpowering subject, letting them know they are being rude, reminding them they are not your master or keeper, etc. Often times, referring to police commanders, for example, by their first name, or asking how their mother would feel about their position or performance, or simply reminding them that people are watching, or reminding them that it is their interview or asking how their mother would perceive their position, serves to bring about a change in their disposition. Regardless, we will extend courtesy at first and take it away if no courtesy is paid in return. Most senior ranks or persons in a position of power would much rather not be addressed by their first name, but very few will correct a journalist.
Courts, Trials and Rights to a Fair Trial. Signal High is of the view that trials are not always fair, and the outcome not always just. We also take the view that systems of justice, including the courts, can become corrupted in favor of police, law enforcement and other government officials. We do not necessarily “trust in the courts.” This being said, we would never intentionally bias a trial of any kind, or prejudice any person’s rights, including the right to a fair trial. We would never deliberately act in such a way so as to pervert the course of justice (the word justice is being use here in the spoken sense and not to imply the verdict of a court), and we must remain aware at all times how our actions, innocent as they may be, might lead to this.
Credit. Signal High will endeavor to give proper credit to every person and organization involved with its productions. When content is sourced, Signal High will endeavor to properly credit the source, maintain logos and give proper source or segment credit in the credit portion of any broadcast.
Crime Scenes and Sensitive Sites. Signal High is of the view that “crime scenes” and other police controlled zones and spaces are often erected or unnecessarily expanded to conceal police incompetence and corruption. Same applies to security zones. Journalists are expected to challenge authorities when oversteps and power grabs are made (e.g. a thirty foot crime scene for a two inch crime), and to make every lawful effort to record the goings on within these zones. It is not the role of journalists to decide on matters of privacy, publication bans, community values or taste, this is the role of the editor; accordingly, journalists should relentlessly gather content regardless of these factors. Lines erected by fire services should be trusted more so than police, and given due regard for safety purposes. The same thinking applies to secure places or critical infrastructure. If the law of the jurisdiction is that photography is perfectly legal, and that one may capture images of anything and anywhere they can see from a public place, work with that. After all, in order to assert privacy rights one has to make a place private. This may suggest that overhearing a conversation in a public park is fair game while overhearing a conversation in a private home or back yard is not. Journalists should consult editors or chief general counsel for guidance.
Defense of Property. This is where having in-depth knowledge of the law in your jurisdiction is important. The powers of police in respect to the confiscation of journalistic notes, intellectual property, memory cards, audio and video equipment, identification, etc. varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Signal High takes the view that any and all content developed by journalists, from the point of idea or inception, is the joint property of the author and the company, even if it remains unpublished. Journalists are obliged to protect and defend property, and to report its loss, damage or theft. This includes intellectual property, content, operational methods and mechanisms, equipment, documents, systems information (specifically access codes and passwords), personnel information, contact information, data, etc. Journalists do not have the corporate authority to disclose content except as is reasonably necessary for research and production purposes. This may include sharing small pieces of information about an assignment with another journalist, etc. In most jurisdictions, the police do not have the right to arbitrarily seize this type of property without substantial cause that it has been used in a crime; however, police in some cases may transport your property when arrested. Working in partnership with another Signal High journalist really pays off as property can be passed from one to another, avoiding police seizure. Should police attempt to seize property, you may elect to tell them that the data is kept and they can obtain it by production order, or that you do not consent to seizure. Depending on the jurisdiction, police may not have the authority to seize material unless they can demonstrate it will not be available by production order. Regardless, contact the newsroom and corporate security to report property loss as soon as possible.
Dress and Deportment. Signal High reserves the right to determine and stipulate the dress and deportment of its employees and associates, especially its journalists, even more so when on assignment. It is in our best interest to self represent in the most favorable light possible, given cautious consideration to our brand. In most capitalist, employer-employee relationships, the employer stipulates uniformity, dress and deportment. This policy specifically applies to the branding and marking of the outer layer of clothing at crowd-intensive or higher-risk assignments, for example white spring jackets that say MEDIA in giant lettering on the back. It is our intent to present as a strong, aggressive, progressive and intelligent media organization. Guides and memoranda issued by company executives shall be followed at all times.
Duty to Perform. We have a duty to perform in respect to the public right to know what is happening within their mechanisms of justice, regardless of how intrusive and upsetting those happenings may be. We will not curtail our investigative activities simply because a matter has entered into a system of justice; however, we will endeavor to avoid sourcing and publishing information that may be prejudicial or obstructive unless that information is of such serious and critical importance to the public, not doing so would bring us into disrepute – examples of this might be: confession induced by torture, state sanctioned abuse of a child, substantive conflicts of interest in court or prosecution officials, major misdeeds (e.g. planting evidence) on the part of police, etc. When we cover a matter that has entered into the domain of our systems of justice, we will endeavor to publish the details of our investigation early on so as not to inadvertently bring new evidence. For hypothetical example, should we in the course of our investigation uncover a video of the arresting officer in a criminal matter using cocaine and having sexual relations with known prostitutes, we not sit on that video and wait until trial begins to publish it.
Embargo. Embargos are contrary to our policy respecting transparent media; however, there are occasions where delay in publishing is unavoidable. In cases where an embargo or delay in publishing may be necessary, the editor-in-chief or news director will assess the rationale given against the interests of the company and the duty we have to report the news. Embargo may include cancellation of particular content altogether. Delaying the reporting of the news is a serious decision that can adversely impact the company, bringing it into disrepute; accordingly, the decision must be highly compelling. At all times, publishing decisions are those of the company.
Founding Documents. Signal High is of the view that journalists should carry with them at all times, as a part of their kit, a copy of all founding documents that enable their work in the jurisdiction – for example, a copy of the United States Constitution, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, etc. This also includes laws and court rulings that protect journalists, limit police powers of arrest, etc. These documents should be clearly marked and easy to read. Journalists should be familiar with the law in their particular jurisdiction and be prepared to calmly and politely articulate same to police and law enforcement. The chief legal counsel may be a valuable resource in respect to the gathering and understanding of these documents.
Good Faith Acquisition, Payment to Sources. Signal High is of the view that paying for content is a perfectly acceptable practice, provided the vetting policies of the company are followed. This applies to public sources, foreign sources and even confidential informants. It is the view of Signal High that paying for content, material or information does not ipso facto degrade or impugn, nor does it bring the company into disrepute. Payment can be made as a fee, an incentive, to cover expenses or simply as a reward. Payment(s) must be approved by an executive officer.
Guests, Observers. Signal High is of the view that having guests or observers accompany you while carrying out your journalistic activities can severely enhance risk factors, and put your guest or observer in peril; however, it may also serve as a valid introduction to Signal High and recruit additional talent. If the person you wish to accompany you is intended to do so on a regular basis (e.g. a driver, a security person, etc) we ask that they register as journalists so we know who they are and can put them on your team. Keep in mind that not all journalists actually report the news. Some are producers, transportation, camera personnel, research personnel, etc. We are all journalists, but not all of us actively report the news, some work behind the scenes. In respect to the notion of ‘bringing a friend along’ every now and then, the choice is yours. We assume no risk. We ask that the friend not do anything involved in the production of the content, and that they not interact with people under the Signal High banner. We do; however, appreciate you wanting to share the Signal High experience and encourage you to recruit new journalists to the family.
Identify, req. Journalists are generally required to self-identify on demand; however, there are exceptions. Should credentials be requested, journalists shall display (not hand over or surrender) their identification. Journalists are strongly encouraged not to identify when their personal safety is at risk or when demanded by law enforcement, given the laws of your jurisdiction. Journalists are not required to identify when they are performing their duties if doing so would obstruct or hinder them (e.g. in the midst of taking a statement, making a broadcast, etc). Journalists are not expected to identify whensoever they are being assaulted, bullied to threatened. Journalists are not compelled by this policy to self-identify to authorities when doing so might jeopardize their rights under law, or when the requesting party refuses to identify themselves in manner same, and it is the view of Signal High that a particular uniform is not in and of itself identification.
Identification Cards. Official identification cards may be issued to journalists and shall display their name (or nom de plume), employee number, a photograph showing likeness, their title or level within the organization, an expiry date, date of issue and security features. The reverse shall give a certifying statement and provide at least one contact method for Signal High. These cards are the property of Signal High and must be returned or destroyed on request, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify as having association with Signal High. Cards may not be combined with any other form of identification, specifically and without limitation, a metallic badge or other authoritative identification. Lost, stolen or damaged cards must be reported to corporate security immediately.
Intrusiveness and Escalation. Journalists and management must together balance the need for intrusiveness with the overall public interest. Signal High is not interested in paparazzi; however, some assignments require more aggression than others. Keep in mind that our job is to research and find the story; however, granted, part of this may be the comment of the subject or another party.
Journalist, def. We are all journalists. From front-line reporters, to writers, researchers, producers, editors, and even executive officers. Everyone who falls into the news division is a journalist. Being a journalist is more an endorsement, a license to participate in certain activity for Signal High and a promise that you will be supported. The actual, functional roles journalists may fulfill are too many to list, and too fluid to trace. But at the end of the day, we are all journalists and these policies apply to all of us.
Kidnapping, Hostage Taking and Manifesto. In certain cases involving kidnapping, hostage taking and/or terrorism, when publication would endanger someone’s life, we should put the victim’s safety first. Decisions to withhold news in such cases must be approved by the an executive officer. Requests to publish a manifesto, hidden messages or other content in support of a particular operation shall be made by executive officers on the advice of the editor-in-chief and the chief general counsel.
Lawyers and Legal Representatives. From time to time, journalists are confronted by lawyers and legal representatives, which may include communications personnel. It is good practice to get the correct spelling of first and last name, the name of their firm, telephone and e-mail contact, etc. Try to make every encounter on the record and not to answer questions. Do not assume that they have true authority to speak on behalf of subjects, despite what they claim. Generally speaking, confirm they actually represent the subject before giving them authority; however, in cases where you are asked to leave private property, assume the have authority and comply.
Literacy Target. Generally speaking, the literacy target for our content is American, Grade 10. This is to say that, with obvious exception for some content specifically designed for very specific audiences, content shall be written, presented and paced for English-speaking Americans at the grade ten reading and language comprehension level. This is not to suggest our target audience is slow or diminished in any way, or that non-English speakers constitute a portion of our audience. It is easier to take in news that is delivered at a slower pace, and it is less likely to incite panic. We should never assume our audience has prior training, education or knowledge of a particular subject matter and should give background and explanation where possible.
Lost or Stolen ID Cards. Journalists are obliged to report lost or stolen identification immediately to the newsroom as well as corporate security. Should lost or stolen identification be found or recovered, journalists must report that as well. Depending on the circumstances, the journalist may elect or be directed to make report to police, security officials or other personnel, a copy of which shall be obtained by the journalist and forwarded to corporate security.
Loyalty. Journalists shall remain entirely loyal to Signal High, regardless. While journalists may develop and have their own opinions, they are obliged to portray Signal High in a good and positive light at all times, even after they leave the company. Professionalism is always the best way to go. Journalists are expected to defend Signal High to detractors and speak positively to the public. Journalists are expected to correct certain sensitive issues, e.g. “actually, we are not a blog we are an online information channel,” and “we are a fully accredited news media organization.” Signal High uses innovative technologies to gather content and publish valuable news and information to the public. We do not speak ill of our colleagues, even when we don’t like them. We are all a team, all on the same page. Unless otherwise instructed, we are the best people in the best place and the best time.
Minimum Age of Journalists, Junior Reporters. Journalists are appointed by an executive officer, under the terms, conditions, provisions and limitations thereby stipulated. Generally, journalists must be at least eighteen years of age. Persons under the age of eighteen who have been legally emancipated in accordance with the laws of jurisdiction, and who have lawful capacity to enter into a contract, may be appointed a journalist. Persons under the age of eighteen may, with the express permission of their parent/guardian, be appointed a journalist. Signal High may determine the title assigned to journalists, for example “Junior Reporter” or “Teen Writer.” Signal High shall give full and cautious consideration, when stipulating the assignments of journalists under the age of eighteen, limiting assignments to very-low risk factors and stipulating that parent/guardian is in attendance. The persona and journalistic approach of persons under the age of eighteen must be carefully crafted so as to avoid unnecessary conflict. This must be accounted for in risk assessments. Company executives, particularly chief general counsel, shall take a more involved role in the cautioning and counseling of journalists under the age of eighteen.
Opinion Pieces, Editorials, Letters to the Editor, News. Opinion Pieces are factual columns written by, or taken from, qualified experts. Editorials are commentaries written by editors summarizing a particular subject matter and bringing together content on that subject. Letters to the Editor are content pieces written by people external to the organization and sent in for comment. News is content written to report the news. It is the editors and news director who play an important role in properly categorizing this material prior to publish, and it is very important it s properly identified to give the appropriate credibility.
Personal Protective Equipment. Journalists shall make proper use of all protective equipment assigned to them. This may include masks, face shields, gloves, radios, etc. Higher risk assignments may require the use of security personnel, kevlar vests and other appliances, stab plates, helmets, emergency beacons, etc. Journalists are discouraged from carrying weaponry such as firearms, batons, truncheons, repellent or pepper spray, etc. While properly trained and lawfully permitted security personnel may be justified in having and using such equipment, we would prefer that journalists equip with purely defensive equipment when executing their duties. Exceptions to this policy and preference must be made by an executive officer. Nothing in this policy derogates from the inherent rights of the jurisdiction, including the right to defend self, carry concealed firearms, open carry fire arms, etc. Signal High supports and respects the right of a populous to self-determine and pledges to conduct itself accordingly.
Placelines, Backdrops. Signal High will not use placelines, backdrops or other content to mislead as to where journalists were placed at the time; however, Signal High may elect not to disclose the location and write instead ‘Location Withheld’ or ‘Unknown Location’ for reasons that include security, sensitivity, risk management, etc. Signal High may use backdrops or stock footage, images, sounds and such in their content provided it is not intended to mislead.
Polls, Reports and Studies. Journalists should be highly skeptical of polls, reports and studies until such a time as the author is verified and credibility assessed. Editors play a major role in the validation of polls, reports and studies. Use must be accompanied by full credit and source attribution, and if need be a disclosure that they do not represent the opinion of Signal High. The most important part of validation is the source of funding. Editors must ensure that we take no chances in endorsement or otherwise promotion of this content.
Privacy. Everyone has the right to privacy, even corporations, and even the government, to some extent. Privacy rights must be considered in our investigations and the development of content. Content may need to be modified to conceal the identity of third-parties – e.g. pseudonyms, blurring faces, concealing identity altogether, etc. When assessing the appropriate degree of privacy to afford, journalists shall weigh the good of the public and the protection of the individual. Vulnerable persons, and people unnecessary and irrelevant to the story should be protected. Furthermore, we must always keep in mind that accused persons are innocent until proven guilty. Journalists must be fluent in the privacy laws of their particular jurisdiction.
Promises Kept. Journalists do not make promises they can’t keep, and keep the promises they make. Formative promises made to sources or subjects must first receive consent from editors, the greater the promise the more senior the authority. We do not promise whether or when a story will be published, what the content will be, the prominence it will be given, or anything whatsoever. Journalists shall at all times, defer to their editor. When a journalist promises to send a copy of a particular story, they must remember to do so. The most contentious issue is anonymity of sources. When a journalist, with the authority described above, promises to keep names and particulars secret, they will do so as disclosing the identity of anonymous sources would invariably bring the company into grave disrepute.
Promotional Gimmicks. Special promotions, in-news advertising, sponsorships, attractions, giveaways and other gimmicks may only ever be deployed on the authority of an executive officer. While these initiatives might yield good results, there are often legal and financial technicalities that have to be considered. Journalists are precluded from wearing corporate logos prominently for this purpose. Journalists are precluded from accepting payment for this purpose.
Publication Bans. Signal High will always obey the law; however, a publication ban made by a court of competent jurisdiction (a judge) does not necessarily preclude us from continuing our investigation. We can continue to collect intelligence and information from reliable sources; however we cannot publish it within the sphere of that jurisdiction, or in any way it will fall back to said jurisdiction. Modern technology has made publication bans almost entirely unenforceable. News occurring in Smalltown, NY is published on servers overseas long before it makes the morning paper at home. When a publication ban, or similar court order, is issued by the courts, content must be carefully and cautiously reviewed by experienced editors, vetted by chief general counsel, and authorized by the editor-in-chief prior to being published. The objective is to ensure that we comply with the letter of the law, while continuing to meet our duties as a media organization. In some cases where we formulate the view that judges have really outdone themselves, and stepped over a line, we may even launch our own case to remove the ban; however, this is time consuming and costly, and puts us at the mercy of the courts. Much better to find another way to make it work.
Publishing Decisions. Publishing decisions are made at all levels of the organization. Ultimately, news directors have the final say but always in consultation with editors, producers, publishers, company executives and journalists. Many different factors will be considered in selection and publishing, e.g. quality of content, current news and trends, size and topic of content, theme, value of content, audience, etc. It is the intent of Signal High to publish what people want and need to see, even if they don’t know it yet. Careful consideration must be given to these and other factors in order to deliver the most informative, credible and trusted channels.
Purchasing Authority. Unless otherwise provided, journalists do not have the authority to purchase or contract for the company, and shall not represent that they do. Even though there may be an understanding that journalists will be reimbursed for particular purchases for particular purposes, this is not blanket authorization. Journalists must take extra caution to ensure that they retain e-mails, notes and other documents of authorization.
Quotations. What appears inside quotation marks in published articles must be an exact, accurate representation of what was written or said. Grammatical errors can be corrected and some idiosyncratic expressions of speech can be omitted or put into [sic]. Paraphrasing is acceptable and even preferable if the accuracy of a direct quote cannot be verified, but any paraphrasing must fairly reflect the source’s words. Circumstances and context for quotes, including whether the comment was in response to a question and whether it came from email or social media, should be provided when relevant. If quotes appear out of sequence, changes in circumstance and context should be reported. Circumstance and context include body language, facial expressions, audience and inflection. Quotes cited from interviews conducted through a translator must be identified as such. Reconstructed dialogue must be cleared by a senior editor and should be published only with the acknowledgment that it is reconstructed from a source’s memory. We are not bound by hearsay rules; however, we should clarify source and circumstance at all times.
Relationship to Signal High. Some people are nosey and inquire into the relationship between journalists and Signal High. The police are well known for asking vague and irrelevant questions like “so are you some kind of blogger then?” or “so do you actually make money from this?” The purpose for asking questions like these is to find a hook whereby they can insult you and belittle your activities, making themselves out to be superior. It is a commonly taught tactic that police officers love to use on journalists because it is insulting and demanding at the same time, allowing them to flex their authority and intimidate you. Signal High recommends the response “How much I earn is none of your business.” or “I report my income to the proper authority, not you.” This is a good opportunity to point the camera and ask about their income, money from kickbacks and bribes, extortion, corruption, etc. Asking you about your relationship to your employer, or asking about your compensation is not normal conversation for a stranger. There is only one reason that a police officer would ask such questions, and that is to set you up for put-downs, diminish your stature or make fun of you. Signal High will never reveal details of your work with us, except to confirm you are a journalist.
Relationship to the Law. We are not friends of the court, nor are we friends of the police. We do not investigate and publish matters for the benefit of any person, party or interest except those we list as fiduciary. We strongly believe that a person is innocent until found guilty by a “court” of competent jurisdiction. Furthermore, as a global news organization, what we report in one geopolitical region may not be the same as what we report outside of that area. The internet has brought such boundless opportunities for media to spread interesting and pertinent news the world over, subject of course to the long arm of the law, if any. Journalists are directed to consult the chief general counsel before taking any action that may be deemed to be in contempt of a particular court or matter.
Risk Management. Signal High recognizes the environmental and occupational dangers journalists face. Not only must journalists give concern to the incident itself (e.g. a riot, standoff, hostage taking or other ambitious police action), they must give regard to secondary and tertiary actors with the potential of making the situation far worse, including the police and private security, self-appointed sheriffs, members of the public with an axe to grind, violent protesters, renegade social workers who wish to be the centre of attention, politicians and other bystanders who seemingly have little to no self-control. Nothing in this policy derogates from the inherent right to self defense, according to law. Journalists shall formulate a risk assessment prior to deployment, and in cases where a particular assignment is mid- to high-risk, a comprehensive risk assessment shall be reviewed with corporate security and executive officers prior to deployment. Corporate security and executive officers shall ensure that risks evaluated on a “likelihood vs. consequences basis” and that they are mitigated as much as possible. Journalists have every right to refuse assignments that are unmitigated, high-risk. The safety and security of our journalists is our top priority.
Slander, Libel. Slander and libel are two types of injury to reputation and grounds for compensation. Slander refers to spoken word where libel is usually written. Both can be costly if proven in court; however, being that Signal High says and publishes only the truth, we are clear. We have to be extra cautious not to speculate, insinuate or report anything other than fact. The laws of some jurisdictions recognize that publishing in the public interest is not always an exact measure; however, best to stick only to the facts as we know them. In order to further avoid liability here, we have to adhere to our verification and validation process (editors) and act fairly to all parties involved. Furthermore, we have to ensure that privileged statements are quoted exact and made in context, e.g. legislative privilege, etc.
Station identification. At least once in every twenty-four hours, a station identification must be made. Furthermore, a station identification shall be published on the web site of each channel we operate. Furthermore, a standard sign-off shall be made at the end of every correspondent report, “This is Joe Smith, Signal High News, Toronto. You are watching BadCop.Online.” Furthermore, the channel logo shall be presented on screen throughout every broadcast. There should never be doubt as to the channel being watched, and there should never be any doubt that the channel is operated by Signal High.
Stereotypes. Everyone has prejudices. Journalists are not expected to overcome their prejudices, they are expected to carry out their functions without them. This applies not only what is said, but also what is investigated and how. Editors play a crucial role in sorting out prejudices and ensuring that it does not manifest within our content. Action or inaction taken resultant from a person’s race, creed color, religion, gender, family class, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, mental and physical ability and any other protected ground is absolutely and entirely prohibited. Allowing stereotypes to appear in our content is not only wrong, its bad for business.
Suicides. We should not shy away from writing about suicide when the story is newsworthy and considered to be in the public interest. Such reports should respect the grief of survivors and strive to provide information for others about how to get help. We should not shy away from reporting how a person killed themselves, but we should stay away from gossip or innuendo as to the reason. Suicide stories must be discussed with senior editors before publication.
Taste. Credibility in a broad and diverse audience is not captured by the use of profanity, sexually charged phraseology, blasphemy, etc. Directly quoting subjects in their use of this type of language is perfectly acceptable, provided a reasonable degree of censorship is applied. People do not want to ingest content that they find offensive, this is to say that our writing should be clean and unoffending; however, the quotes of others need not be. Editors play a key role in this respect, finding ways of getting our points across without making the reader uncomfortable by our content. This most certainly applies to racially and ethnically sensitive words, slurs and other demeaning words and phrases. This also applies to images of deceased persons, horrible accidents, bloodied victims, survivors of trauma and massacres, and other tragedies. We are not there to shock people with our text, our subjects can do this for themselves with their own words.
Teams and Partnerships. Journalists may elect or be directed to partner with other journalists, or to form a larger team. This may be a journalist and a camera person, a producer and a journalist, a team of journalists and a complete production staff, or any other configuration. Teams must have a name and appoint a leader, and this must be approved by the editor-in-chief, news director or a company executive. Signal High reserves the right to assemble and disassemble teams whensoever and howsoever it sees fit. Teams may decide on matters howsoever they choose; however, Signal High reserve the right to control and direct teams regardless. Signal High is of the view that well-functioning, multi-disciplinary teams have the potential to produce excellent content, and it encourages journalists to collaborate.
Truth, Accuracy and Corrective Measures. Truth and Accuracy is one of our core journalistic principles. It is not flexible, it speaks to our most basic function. We are bound by truth. We all have a responsibility to produce truthful content. Editors have a specific role to play in this, verifying content prior to publish. Our processes must ensure accuracy and, while mistakes may occur, we must continuously strive for perfection. Should mistakes occur, the editor and editor-in-chief must be notified immediately, and shall take corrective action. This may include publishing corrective content, issuing apologies and the like. The editor or editor-in-chief responsible for managing the error shall notify the news director and an executive officer. Journalists shall carry out all correction measures directed by the editors.
Undercover. Undercover work is when a journalist attends a particular place, acts as another person, concealing their true identity as a journalist. This may include the use of hidden cameras, secreted microphones, personation or pretending to be someone they are not. Surveillance is a good example of undercover work. Infiltration is deep undercover. This is where an extensive alias is crafted and a journalist infiltrates an organization or circle of associates over time. This may include a journalist befriending people in order to acquire information that would otherwise not be available, then maintaining that relationship to continue acquisition. Embedding is where journalists work side-by-side with others, often military or other state agents, to acquire footage that may not otherwise be available. Undercover, infiltration and embedding can be dangerous and legally complex. In all cases, it must be approved by an executive officer. Journalists must exercise extreme caution so as to ensure they are acting lawfully and that their performance does not bring Signal High into disrepute. The laws of the jurisdiction must be cautiously examined with chief general counsel, and the journalist must demonstrate his or her ability to carry out the assignment in accordance with the stipulations imposed. In all cases, undercover work, infiltration and embedding are not methods automatically engaged, they are to be sparingly used when other, more conventional, methods are ineffective.
Unpublishing, Back Editing. Except in the most rare, often legal circumstances, which must be directed by an executive officer on the advise of chief general counsel, we do not remove or alter content from our websites, past content or archives. There may be some cases where it is deemed appropriate to remove content because it is judged the humane thing to do in the circumstances; however, any decision to move published content should be weighed carefully against the public’s right to know and the historical record.
Victims. Journalists shall show sincere sensitivity when dealing with victims of crime and their loved ones, especially victims of violent crime. While journalists are free to approach and engage victims, under no circumstances shall journalists ever pester, harass or unfairly press victims to obtain content. Journalists are precluded from using deception when engaging victims.
Warrants, etc. Journalists shall immediately notify the newsroom in any case where police or other law enforcement attempt to serve or execute a search warrant on any premises owned or controlled by Signal High, at the home of a staff member, etc. Same applies to subpoenas, production orders and any other writ or order. Once the newsroom has been notified, journalists shall inform their editor, etc. as well as chief general counsel. Always try to take a copy or retain the warrant. Surprise search warrants are one of many reasons journalists must take extra precautions to protect source information, and content.
Will not Identify. Signal High does not publish the identity, or any information that would reasonably lead to the discovery of the identity, of victims of sexual assault, persons under the age of eighteen who have been arrested, accused of convicted of a crime, persons covered by a publication ban for security reasons or for other reasons, persons under witness protection, or other similar reasons. This does not mean that the identities of these people cannot be collected, only that they may not be published. Exceptions may be made in cases where the laws of the jurisdiction provide for publishing, consent is given by the adult person, parent or legal guardian, where the interest of the public would be brought into disrepute by not publishing, and always on the authority of an executive officer.
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