Common use of Media Relations Clause in Contracts

Media Relations. The media contact person’s duties shall be coordinated with the Chief of Police or Sheriff of the venue agency, the incident Commander, the RMCT supervisor, any investigator/s involved in the internal/administrative investigation, and the Prosecuting Attorney of venue. 1. The public’s right to know what occurred must be balanced with the investigative process and the rights of involved individuals. 2. If possible, the identity of any involved employee should be withheld from the media for approximately 48 hours following the incident. a. A 48 hour release policy for all parties involved in a shooting, to include the individual shot, is recommended to allow for notification to families and arrange for temporary, secure accommodations if they fear threats or retaliation may follow. The 48 hour release policy also provides the department sufficient time to properly notify the family of the individual shot. 3. Prior to the identity being released, the involved employee should be notified.