Crime Reporter

METRO MARKET MEDIA•Gainesville, GA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Crime Reporter is responsible for covering crime, courts, law enforcement, and public safety issues across Metro Market Media’s coverage area. This role requires a fast, accurate, and ethical journalist who can break news, develop reliable sources, and produce compelling stories that help readers understand both the facts and the broader impact of criminal activity in their communities. The reporter will balance daily breaking news with enterprise reporting and long‑term projects.

Requirements

Minimum of 1–3 years of reporting experience, preferably covering crime, courts, or public safety.
Strong writing, interviewing, and storytelling skills.
Ability to think and react quickly and professionally in breaking news situations.
Familiarity with newsroom software and tools, including InDesign, Photoshop, and digital CMS platforms.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet tight deadlines.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Availability for evening, weekend, and on‑call work as breaking news demands.
Travel within the coverage area; mileage reimbursement provided.
Commitment to ethical journalism and maintaining the trust of the community.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, English, Criminal Justice, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Cover crime, courts, police activity, and public safety issues thoroughly, accurately, and with strong news judgment.
Produce 2–4 stories per day, including breaking news, daily coverage, and enterprise features.
Anticipate developing stories and maintain multiple pieces in progress at all times.
Write stories that are accurate, balanced, well‑sourced, and accessible to a general audience.
Proofread own work and assist with reviewing colleagues’ work for accuracy, grammar, and style.
Provide timely online updates for breaking news, including live coverage when appropriate.
Capture photos and videos when needed to supplement reporting.
Work with photographers, videographers, and editors to enhance stories with visuals, graphics, and data.
Meet daily digital publishing expectations and weekly print deadlines.
Build and maintain strong relationships with law enforcement agencies, court officials, attorneys, victims, and community members.
Establish trust with individuals whose stories are being told, especially in sensitive or traumatic situations.
Maintain professionalism and empathy in all interactions.
Participate in daily and weekly budget meetings, contributing story ideas and updates.
Communicate effectively with editors regarding workflow, deadlines, and story progress.
Collaborate with other departments (advertising, circulation) as needed to support organizational goals.
File and track open records requests; maintain familiarity with public records laws.
Follow newsroom standards for ethics, accuracy, and fairness.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Metro Editor or newsroom leadership.