Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, and Wisconsin Newspaper Association Host Webinar on Ethical Victim Reporting

Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, and the Wisconsin Newspaper Association recently hosted a webinar bringing together leading voices in journalism and victims’ rights to discuss responsible media reporting when covering crime victims. The full recording of the session is now available below.

The panel was moderated by Nela Kalpic, State Director for Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, and featured:

• Ashley Luthern, Reporter and Deputy Investigations Editor at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

• Leigh Mills, Anchor and Reporter at WMTV

• Kim Goldman, Victims’ Rights Advocate and sister of Ron Goldman

• Renee Williams, Executive Director of the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC)

Together, they explored best practices for interacting with victims and survivors, grounded in the NCVC’s guide for reporters. The conversation offered practical strategies for protecting survivors from unwanted attention, conducting trauma-informed interviews, and ensuring that news coverage does not unintentionally compromise their privacy or well-being. Panelists also spoke about how thoughtful reporting can help survivors share their stories in ways that lead to meaningful, positive outcomes.

The webinar also highlighted the connection between these practices and Wisconsin’s crime victims’ constitutional amendment—Marsy’s Law—which guarantees rights such as privacy, notice, and participation in the justice process. Panelists discussed how responsible reporting aligns with these protections and how newsrooms can incorporate them into everyday workflows.

Partner Reflections

“Broadcasters play an essential role in shaping how our communities understand and respond to crime,” said Michelle Vetterkind, President of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. “By reporting responsibly and with empathy, we not only uphold journalistic integrity but also protect the dignity and privacy of survivors.”

“Print and digital journalists alike have a responsibility to report with accuracy,” said Beth Bennet, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. “When coverage is balanced and reflects respect for victims, it strengthens both public trust in the press and the pursuit of justice.”

“Ensuring the spirit of Marsy’s Law is upheld relies not only on our judicial system, but on those who observe and report on crimes,” said Nela Kalpic, State Director for Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin. “When journalists report with care, they help ensure survivors are treated with dignity while keeping the public accurately informed.”

Watch the full discussion: