The media as an investigative resource: reflections from English cold-case units

Abstract

Purpose The use of the media in live cases has been explored in terms of its use and value to an investigation. However, it is unclear as to whether engaging with the media in cold-case investigations results in a positive or negative reception, and what impact this can have on a case’s possibility for progression. Because of the passage of time and a lack of, or a failed, prosecution means that the approach to media use needs to be different. The purpose of this paper is to explore how the media could be used as an investigative resource for cold cases. Design/methodology/approach This study is a result of a 7-month observation period with a 2-force collaborative cold-case team in England, and supplemented with interviews with 12 experienced cold-case detectives. Using inductive thematic analysis, the themes identified allow an exploration of detectives’ use of the media and the effect that this has on progressing cases. Further, there is discussion as to whether the media’s involvement is positive or negative. Findings The overarching theme is that when using the media, cold-case detectives are met with a positive reception and interest. The media can be used to obtain information, particularly in cases with minimal information, and it is important to use murder-anniversaries to obtain help from the public. However, this needs to be a carefully managed strategy as the media coverage can be negative, including inaccurate or inappropriate reporting which can be of detriment to the investigation. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first paper to explore how cold-case detectives have used the media to progress cases, and the findings demonstrate that when the public are encouraged to come forward with information, there is a better chance of case progression. Further research is required to explore how all cold cases can receive appropriate coverage.

Psychological contributions to cold case investigations: A systematic review

“…Bennett [ 8 ] used qualitative analysis to identify themes relating to media in cold case investigations. The study reports the results of a seven-month observation period with a two-force collaborative cold-case team in England and was supplemented with interviews with 12 experienced cold-case detectives.…”

“…The study reports the results of a seven-month observation period with a two-force collaborative cold-case team in England and was supplemented with interviews with 12 experienced cold-case detectives. In general, participants agreed that media involvement had proven to be useful in obtaining information, especially when paired with memory cues such as strategically employing media on anniversaries of cold cases [ 8 ]. Providing media coverage of anniversaries relating to the case demonstrates law enforcement's dedication to solving the case and reminds members of the public that the case remains unsolved [ 8 ].…”

“…In general, participants agreed that media involvement had proven to be useful in obtaining information, especially when paired with memory cues such as strategically employing media on anniversaries of cold cases [ 8 ]. Providing media coverage of anniversaries relating to the case demonstrates law enforcement's dedication to solving the case and reminds members of the public that the case remains unsolved [ 8 ]. Additionally, media usage can incentivize witnesses who may otherwise be reluctant to disclose information.…”

“…However, media usage must be strategic, as negative, or inappropriate portrayals of the crime or victim can at best discourage members of the public with information and at worst hinder investigation efforts. For example, one participant described a media appeal emphasizing victims' drug abuse, which led to members of the public viewing them as a ‘glue-sniffer’, resulting in a lack of interest and response [ 8 ]. Unfortunately, psychological literature has shown time and time again that bias can be a detrimental factor in police investigations, especially cognitive biases within law enforcement.…”

“…With this is mind, another risk is that it can be difficult to control the extent of coverage a case receives. In some cases, a victim's family members have learned about their passing through media coverage of the case, so participants emphasized that a victim's family should be consulted or at least informed before media involvement [ 8 ].…”