Crime news is a powerful subject that sells newspapers and TV advertising. People are drawn to stories about greed, violence, sex and revenge, which often reflect important human emotions. Crime news can also be a way of highlighting problems in society – like drugs, poverty, housing and education – and can change people’s perception of crime rates.
People get their crime news from local media, including radio and television, newspapers, the internet, and apps. About half of Americans say they see news about property crime, drug-related crime or violent crime in their community at least weekly. Those who live in urban areas are more likely to get such crime news than those in suburban or rural areas.
In 2024, a Gallup poll found that 60% of American adults believe that crime is on the rise, despite statistics showing that it is not. This incorrect perception could be caused by the amount of crime news people see, and by the type of crime they hear about.
Journalists should be aware that there is a strong link between how crime is reported and the public’s fear of crime. Exaggerating crime can do a disservice to society by promoting a false picture of the problem. The best way to avoid this is to gain access respectfully, deal with sensitive material, and collect victims’ versions of events while considering their stress and emotions. Reporting on crime can be a difficult beat, but it is vitally important for democracy and society.