TY  - JOUR
PY  - 1989//
TI  - Media trials
JO  - Journal of criminal justice
A1  - Surette, R.
SP  - 293
EP  - 308
VL  - 17
IS  - 4
N2  - This article discusses the phenomenon of 'media trials' in the United States and reports a test of a typology of these trials. Media trials are defined as regional or national news 'events' in which the criminal justice system is co-opted by the media as a source of high drama and entertainment. They involve cases with characteristics similar to criminal cases portrayed in the entertainment mass media-human interest laced with mystery, sex bizarre circumstances, and famous or powerful people. This article argues that media trials center on three themes -- 'abuse of power and trust,' 'sinful rich,' and 'evil strangers' -- and that media trials have a significant social importance and impact.<p />
LA  - 
SN  - 0047-2352
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0047-2352(89)90034-2
ID  - ref1
ER  -