SPJ Ethics Chair Addresses Journalists Entering Home Of San Bernardino Shooters

SPJ Ethics Committee chair Andrew Seaman released a statement Friday regarding journalists entering the San Bernardino shooters’ home after the landlord reportedly opened the door, allowing journalists and others to enter.

“Journalists should feel free to investigate stories when and where possible. They need to minimize harm in their reporting, however. Walking into a building and live broadcasting the pictures, addresses and other identifying information of children or other people who may have no involvement in the story does not represent best and ethical practices.”

For more information, journalists should refer to SPJ’s Code of Ethics.