The media, major incidents and you.

Some of you may have heard that my agency made headline news in Alberta due to an incident that occurred late last year. I don't know how much play the headline got out east. It must have gotten some because we did receive at least one phone call from an Ottawa based radio station. Before I continue with the article I should tell you all that I was not involved in the incident nor will I discuss it in this article. That is not my place and would probably lead to my termination.

The increased attention we received as a result of that incident, and the attack articles that I read, made me think back to some of my trainers who have given helpful information on how officers should cope with the media after critical incidents. Thankfully most of the suggestions also work in the case of security officers, so I decided to share some of the ideas.

I am writing this article because I believe that an officers mental and emotional health is just as important as their physical health. I am concerned that our officers emotional wellbeing is often overlooked, especially when they are involved in a critical incident and have their actions questioned on the 6 o'clock news.

If you find yourself involved in an incident that receives media attention, do your best to avoid reading or watching the news. Whilst this is easier said then done, the media will undoubtedly get information wrong or they with come right out and attack the officer. I have read plenty of media accounts of officer-involved incidents. Very rarely do they come out in favour of the officer’s actions. As an officer, having your actions judged or questioned by people who have no idea what your job involves can be heart breaking. It can also lead to you questioning your own response. This negative media can destroy an officer’s morale, or, as I have seen in the l last week, destroy the morale of an entire team of officers.

I personally don't like the fact that the media always portray the subject as the victim while the officers are the "bad guys"; this is rarely the case. In critical incidents I believe that the officer is the actual victim.

Another reason to avoid reading media accounts is that often they will talk with witnesses or family members about the subjects personality. Without fail these witnesses will describe the subject as someone who is peaceful, committed to their family and turning their life around. This can cause the victim officer to regret their actions and further shake their confidence.

My personal recommendation is to distance yourself as much as possible from the news accounts.

If you find yourself as the officer involved in an incident that is getting media attention then make sure you find activities to relieve your stress. Set time aside for socializing with friends, family and coworkers. If any of those people want to talk about the incident just let them know that you are not going to discuss it. If they care about you then they won't push the subject.

If you know an officer that has been involved in an incident do not question them about what happened. Often they can’t talk about it for legal reasons. Some officers might not want to repeatedly explain and justify their actions, Others do not want to relive the experience. Instead just ask the officer if they need anything.

If you work at a location where an incident has occurred it is important to continue business as usual. You will get lots of questions about it (I have been getting dozens while I walk around). I suggest informing people that you will not be discussing it. All last week I used the excuse that the subject was awaiting trial and that I would not be divulging any information pertaining to the investigation. Long words make you sound official and the average member of the public tends not to ask too many follow up questions.

An important thing to remember is that often decisions about the incident are made by officials much higher on the pay scale. Often high profile cases are settled by other means. Sometimes it is dropped in an attempt to get rid of the headline, other times the department will pay off the complainant to drop it. Whatever happens it is unfortunately out of your hands. One thing that should be remembered is that management have their own reasons for what they decide. Regardless of what happens it should never be viewed as an admission of guilt.

Finally make sure you have a support network set up before an incident. Make sure you have friends, family and coworkers that you can trust to open up to. You shouldn't be expected to deal with everything yourself. If you need someone to talk to send me a PM and I will get in touch with you.

Stay safe,

Chris

P.S. Law Officer magazine is holding their annual Trainer of the Year. Between now and March 18th nominate an eligible Law Enforcement trainer at 2011 Trainer of the Year - Training - LawOfficer.com

*Please note that the opinions reflected in these articles are mine and mine alone. They are based upon my education, training and experience. They in no way reflect the opinions of my agency, ProtectionServices.ca or the site administrator. Always consult with your agency instructor and check your policy prior to attempting any new procedures or techniques.*