Recent reports cited the city of Phoenix in Arizona as the kidnapping capital of the United States. With a population of residents mixed up in the illegal importing of people and gang problems, the news reports went on to explain that the problem seemed to target specific individuals rather than random acts of violence against citizens. The problem with the news report was it sensationalized a problem that, to date is fairly isolated.  Locally, the reaction bordered on frantic as parents in Arizona warned their children about kidnappings and adults took extra precautions to defend themselves against attacks.

News outlets are always looking for a good story and they strike fear as well as interest in stories such as this. The problem comes when people react to the news story and alter their lives as a result of what they have heard on the television. After seeing this news broadcast, my friend immediately went to the internet to goggle home security in Phoenix.  Another friend contacted ADT Phoenix to come install a home security system in her home. News outlets need to be aware of the reaction people have to news stories and make sure they are reporting responsibly. While kidnapping is a serious problem in the Phoenix area, a vast majority of residents have nothing to fear except the fear of being kidnapped. The reality is that there is a slim possibility that the threat even exists.

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