It is no secret that true crime has become one of the most popular forms of media to consume, and over the last several years the amount of coverage has multiplied significantly. This, in theory, means that more stories are being shared and more awareness is being raised. And while there has been a notable shift towards increased ethical true crime coverage, we are still seeing content that not only falls short of  ‘ethical’, but content that outright ignores ethics altogether. So, what can we do about it?

First, we must define what is meant by ‘ethical true crime’

In part, ethical true crime coverage is reporting that centers the victim’s life, dignity and accurate telling of their story rather than sensationalizing the perpetrator or the events surrounding the crime. In ethical coverage, the victim remains at the center and their humanity is preserved. If you finish consuming a podcast, documentary, and/or YouTube video and find yourself knowing more about the perpetrator than the victim, that’s often a sign the coverage wasn’t truly victim-centered and might point to other unethical characteristics.

In addition to showing respect for the victim, respect for their family is also critical. True crime content that respects a victim’s family might look like including their voices directly, or at least making an effort to use their words and memories to describe who the victim was rather than using general and impersonal descriptions. After all, nobody knows a victim better than those who loved them.

Accurate and transparent reporting is the gold standard in ethical coverage. This coverage relies on verified information and clearly distinguishes facts from speculation. It also seeks a purpose bigger than the content itself. Rather than existing purely for entertainment, it often focuses on education, awareness and advocacy, highlighting systemic issues and sometimes even providing actionable steps for viewers to take to support victims and their loved ones.

Ethical coverage also requires acknowledging bias. The phrase “missing white woman syndrome” refers to the historical phenomenon where young, white women have received significantly more media attention than victims from marginalized communities. Ethical coverage shares stories of victims from all backgrounds – and actively names/identifies that these imbalances have long existed.

While this definition is not all-encompassing, the important thing to remember is that ethical true crime coverage recognizes that real humans and real trauma are at the center of these stories – and that distinction isn’t lost in production.

So, how can YOU be an ethical (and active) true crime consumer? 

As consumers, we play a huge role in shaping the kind of true crime content that exists. Think of your view as a vote – every time you click on a video, podcast, documentary, etc., you are casting a ballot for what you want to see. If sensationalized coverage that ignores the basic principles of ethical coverage receives your vote, it tells “the industry” (or creator) that’s what people want. If there are platforms and/or creators that don’t feel ethical, choose not to engage with the content. On the other side of that, you can choose to actively engage with content you feel does cover true crime ethically. Likes, comments, shares, etc. tell a platform and/or creator that they are doing something right. Vote accordingly!

When possible, do your research on the person and/or organization that is producing the content. Does their background feel ethical? Are they approaching this from a business and profit point of view, or from a place of intention, education and purpose? This can help dictate which coverage you choose to engage with.

Do not blame the victim, and do not leave hateful/unnecessary comments. Families of victims read online commentary and speculation far more often than you would imagine. When choosing to comment on a true crime video, ask yourself, would their {insert family member here} feel good about reading what I have to say? Does my comment show support? Is it empathetic? Remember that words can either hurt people, help people or heal people. Choosely wisely.

Be cautious of inserting yourself in the family’s life. While commenting words of encouragement and support on family-run, case-dedicated social media pages are helpful, don’t seek out personal accounts to give your opinion. Use your judgement here and ask yourself “does this feel intrusive?” While showing verbal support online does mean a lot to a family, be sure to find the appropriate platform to show it and be intentional about what you say.

Check your bias. Be cognizant of the types of cases you find yourself consuming, and be sure to pay attention to those that are receiving less attention. Every victim deserves justice and every family deserves to feel like their loved one is seen and recognized for who they were. Victims from marginalized communities deserve the same time, attention and action. Find these cases, help amplify their voices.

Be ACTIVE! Ethical true crime coverage often places an emphasis on how you, the audience, can support the victim, the family, and/or their community. When possible, take the steps provided to help those in need reach their desired goal. This can mean signing a petition, sharing a flier on social media, making a donation, or even contacting your local representative. If the coverage doesn’t provide a specific actionable item, ask yourself if there’s still something you can do, even if that means sharing the episode to help raise further awareness.

If you have read this far, know that you have already taken an amazing step towards becoming or continuing to be an ethical true crime consumer. The Higher Hope Foundation & Mile Higher Media team appreciates all you do to support victims and their loved ones, and as always, stay safe out there.