Investigative Journalism

Investigative journalism is regarded as 'off diary' this means that its journalism which is not known to everyone. This is similar to Gonzo Journalism. An example of this is  Michael Moore who has created films which mostly highlight America's flaws such as there being no national health care. Therefore it is something that someone doesn't want you to report or publish. An Investigative Journalism story is usually unique unlike everyday news reports which is a report based on everyday events that many people will publish or broadcast.

The classic investigations are on serious (public interest) issues. An example of this is when Harry Evans, editor of the Sunday Times, revealed that a new drug that had been created to prevent morning sickness, actually caused babies to be born deformed.

When publishing Investigative Journalism stories you must be careful to avoid:

• Malice. For instance if you report a story that is personally linked to you it could be viewed as you reporting with malice.
• Conflict of Interest. When two interests overlap.

Miscarriage of Justice
Although the legal system may pronounce a person guilty or innocent this doesn't necessarily mean that this conviction is just. For example, the legal system can be corrupt which means that innocent people are punished and therefore imprisoned for crimes they did not commit.

The Criminal Cases Review Comission (CCRC) was created in order to prevent corruption from occurring, however, this system isn't always effective.

The INUK believes that society is damaged by wrongful convictions. As Brian told us, unfortunately there are cases such as that of Warren Slaney who has already carried out a 20 year imprisonment but remains in prison since he still believes that he is innocent. Slaney remains in prison because he shows now sign of rehabilitation since he hasn't 'come to terms with his crime'.