Ethics Policy – Augusta Today

Report with honesty and fairness  Strive for accuracy, always correcting errors and pointing out significant corrections.  Present verified information, not rumors, and use original sources wherever possible.  Identify sources.  Use anonymous sources only as a last resort. While news tips are often anonymous, we won’t rely on anonymous sources for reporting or quotes unless unavoidable. Use of anonymous sources will be clearly cited.  News coverage should strive to get both sides of the story, regardless of personal opinions.  Use ethical, transparent reporting methods. Writers will identify themselves, the outlet, and ensure sources understand when they are on the record.  Label opinion or commentary so readers clearly understand when a piece is intended as the opinion of the author.  No Augusta Today editor, reporter or other contributor may accept gifts or other gratuities in exchange for coverage.  Minimize harm  Balance the legal access to information with justification to publish. Avoid “lurid curiosity.”  Exercise sensitivity when dealing with victims, juveniles, and survivors.