ABSTRACT
Journalists make mistakes. In the rush to get the news out first, reporters and their editors may rely on a single source who may not be ideal. The errors and the resulting corrections were embarrassing not only for the journalists responsible for the mistakes, but also for the profession of journalism as a whole. Journalists are judged first and foremost on their commitment to accuracy. The pressure to get a story online quickly makes it even more difficult to ensure that accuracy remains primary concern. A reporter who makes mistakes tarnishes his own reputation as well as that of colleagues, his news organization, and his profession. The mistakes surrounding the 2008 death of Stephanie Tubbs Jones should have taught journalists a lesson. Unfortunately, not everyone learned it. Double-check all the information that reporters could not verify and get it right. Developing strong and trusting relationships with sources is essential.
